Ovulation problems
Approximately 1/3 of infertile women experience problems associated with ovulation. If the menstrual cycle is regular, i.e. of 21 to 35 days’ duration, it is highly likely that ovulation will take place normally. The variability of the first phase in the menstrual cycle determines its length. This initial phase, known as the follicular phase, ends with ovulation. This explains why ovulation takes place around the 14th day in a 28-day cycle but not until the 21st day in a cycle of 35 days’ duration.
The second phase of the cycle, known as the luteal phase is relatively constant, i.e. between 12 and 14 days.
The term oligomenorrhoea is used to refer to irregular, infrequent cycles.
Amenorrhoea refers to the complete absence of menstrual cycles. (To find out more)
Infertility of tubular origin
The fallopian tubes may be completely blocked or missing on the one hand. On the other hand, they may be present but are too damaged to function properly. This is generally due to a former infection (inflammation of the uterine appendages) or an essential (extra-uterine pregnancy) or voluntary (sterilisation). (To find out more)
Infertility of cervical or uterine origin
The Cervix uteri may sometimes be responsible for infertility following surgical treatment because of an abnormal smear. This situation is thus the end result of an abnormally narrow cervical canal (stenosis) or the insufficient production of mucus to allow the spermatozoa to penetrate.Congenital deformities of the uterus, benign tumours (fibromas, polyps) or intra-uterine scars (synechiae) can also hamper embryo implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage.
