Female fertility is the ability of a woman to conceive a biological child. Several factors can influence a woman’s fertility, including:
1. *Age*: Women’s fertility starts to decline in their late 20s, drops more significantly after 35, and decreases rapidly after 40.
2. *Ovulation Cycles*: Regular ovulation (the release of eggs from the ovaries) is crucial for fertility. Irregular or absent menstrual cycles can indicate ovulation problems.
3. *Egg Quality and Quantity*: The quality and quantity of a woman’s eggs affect fertility, which diminishes with age.
4. *Reproductive Health*: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and fibroids can affect a woman’s ability to conceive.
5. *Fallopian Tube Health*: Blocked or damaged fallopian tubes prevent sperm from getting to the egg or block the passage of the fertilized egg into the uterus.
6. *Uterine Conditions*: Abnormalities with the uterus, such as polyps, fibroids, or an abnormal shape, can interfere with implantation or pregnancy maintenance.
7. *Lifestyle Factors*: Smoking, excessive alcohol use, extreme weight gain or loss, and excessive physical or emotional stress can impact fertility.
8. *Environmental Factors*: Exposure to certain chemicals and toxins can affect fertility.
9. *Medical Treatments*: Certain medications and treatments, like chemotherapy and radiation, can impact fertility.