4 Less-Common Causes of Infertility

Infertility can be a challenging journey, and while some causes are well-known, others can be more elusive. Read on to learn four less common causes of infertility that may be affecting your ability to grow your family.

If you’re among the 11% of women who’ve experienced a fertility problem, you know how challenging it can be. The most common causes of infertility include hormonal imbalances, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis. But, in some women, the reason for infertility goes unexplained.

Here at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills in South Bay, Redondo Beach, and Beverly Hills, California, our expert OB/GYN team explores every possible reason for your fertility struggles. We’re here to help you build the family of your dreams.

Read on to learn four less-common causes of infertility that you might not have considered. By expanding your knowledge and awareness, we can help you decide if you need more comprehensive fertility evaluations and personalized solutions.

1. Autoimmune disorders and infertility

Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues. Certain autoimmune conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and Type 1 diabetes, can target reproductive organs or affect hormone production, leading to irregular menstrual cycles, ovulatory issues, and even recurrent miscarriages.

Autoimmune conditions aren’t always the first consideration in fertility evaluations, even though they can significantly impact reproductive health. Sometimes, you don’t know you have one until you have a comprehensive workup.

2. Thyroid dysfunction and infertility

Thyroid health plays a vital role in regulating the body's metabolism and hormone balance. Subtle thyroid imbalances, such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), can disrupt ovulation and menstrual regularity.

When you have a mild disruption in thyroid hormones, your symptoms might be less apparent but can significantly impact fertility. Comprehensive thyroid testing as part of fertility evaluations can help identify and address these issues.

3. Uterine anomalies and fertility

The structure of the uterus is essential for successful conception and pregnancy. Uterine anomalies, including septums, fibroids, and polyps, can interfere with embryo implantation or lead to recurrent miscarriages.

These conditions might not always present with noticeable symptoms, so they may not be the initial consideration during fertility evaluations. A thorough evaluation by one of our experienced OB/GYNs can detect these anomalies and guide appropriate treatment.

4. Environmental factors and fertility

The modern environment exposes us to a variety of toxins and chemicals that can impact fertility. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in plastics, pesticides, and some personal care products can mimic hormones and interfere with the body's reproductive system.

Research is uncovering the potential links between environmental exposures and fertility struggles. While avoiding all environmental factors is challenging, raising awareness and making informed choices can help you reduce their impact on fertility.

Infertility is a complex issue and understanding the less-common causes can be a critical step in your conception journey. If you’re navigating infertility, our dedicated team of OB/GYN specialists is here to provide comprehensive evaluations, personalized care plans, and unwavering support.

We can look into lesser-known factors that affect fertility and empower you with knowledge and strategies to overcome obstacles on your parenthood path. To set up your visit, call Women’s Care of Beverly Hills today or use the online tool to book an appointment.