About 1 in 10 women of childbearing age experience infertility. Struggling to conceive can feel overwhelming, but infertility does not mean you cannot become pregnant. With the right diagnosis and treatment, many women are able to achieve their dream of starting or growing their family.
At Sheridan Memorial Hospital Women’s Clinic, our compassionate team specializes in identifying the causes of infertility and providing effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
What is infertility?
Infertility is defined as:
- Inability to get pregnant after one year of trying (if under 35)
- Inability to get pregnant after six months of trying (if 35 or older)
Infertility can affect either partner. While many women assume infertility is solely a female issue, male factors account for nearly half of all cases. That’s why a thorough evaluation is important for both partners.
Causes of infertility in women
Infertility may result from a variety of conditions, including:
- Ovulation disorders – The most common cause of infertility. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), hypothalamic dysfunction, or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) can disrupt ovulation.
- Fallopian tube damage or blockage – Caused by pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), scar tissue from endometriosis, or prior pelvic surgery. This prevents the egg from traveling to the uterus.
- Uterine dysfunction – Fibroids or endometriosis may alter the structure of the uterus, interfering with implantation or pregnancy.
- Age-related infertility/menopause – Natural decline in ovarian function, typically around age 50, ends fertility permanently.
What to expect during an infertility evaluation
Your fertility evaluation at Sheridan Memorial Hospital Women’s Clinic includes a thorough history, physical exam, and diagnostic testing to determine the cause. Depending on your symptoms and needs, tests may include:
- Ovulation assessment – Blood tests, ultrasound, or at-home ovulation kits
- Hysterosalpingogram (HSG): An X-ray test that evaluates whether your fallopian tubes are open
- Laparoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to look for pelvic scarring, endometriosis, or blockages
This comprehensive approach helps your provider identify whether infertility is related to ovulation, fallopian tubes, uterine structure, or other factors.
Infertility treatment options
Once the cause is identified, our team develops a personalized treatment plan that may include:
- Medication – To stimulate ovulation and regulate cycles
- Surgery – To repair blocked fallopian tubes, remove fibroids, or treat endometriosis
- Reproductive assistance – Options such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or referral for advanced fertility treatments (like IVF) when appropriate
Compassionate support on your fertility journey
We understand that infertility can be emotionally challenging. Our team is here to provide medical expertise, emotional support and personalized care every step of the way.
If you’re struggling to conceive, call Sheridan Memorial Hospital Women’s Clinic today to schedule your fertility evaluation.