Uterine factor infertility is when a woman’s uterus has problems and it affects pregnancy. It can be due to birth defects, fibroids, scarring, or infections. Some women are born without a uterus, while others develop issues after surgeries. This condition can make it hard to conceive or carry a baby. Symptoms include irregular periods, repeated miscarriages, or difficulty getting pregnant.
At RISAA IVF, Dr. Rita Bakshi and her team provide expert care for every issue. They offer treatments to help women get pregnant. In this blog, we will guide you through the types, symptoms, and treatments. We will also discuss helpful tips to prevent this issue. Keep reading and learn more about this topic.
What Is Uterine Factor Infertility?
Uterine Factor Infertility (UFI) happens when a woman cannot get pregnant because of problems with her uterus. Some women are born without a uterus, while others have an abnormal shape or damage to the uterus. This can be caused by fibroids, scar tissue, infections, or previous surgeries. If the uterus cannot support a pregnancy, it can lead to difficulty conceiving or repeated miscarriages. In some cases, the uterus is completely missing or non-functional. This is called Absolute Uterine Factor Infertility (AUFI). It means that pregnancy is impossible without a uterus transplant or surrogacy.
Who Can Get It and How Common Is It?
Any woman with uterine problems can have UFI which also causes female infertility. Studies show that it affects between 2% to 16% of women struggling to get pregnant. Some conditions, like a uterine septum, can increase the chances of infertility even more. The exact number of cases depends on the cause and how doctors diagnose it.
Types Of Uterine Factor Infertility
Uterine Factor Infertility happens due to different problems with the uterus. Here is a table explaining the main types:
| Type | Description | Examples | Effect on Fertility |
| Congenital Uterine Abnormalities | Problems present from birth. | -MRKH syndrome (absent or underdeveloped uterus)
-Uterine septum (wall dividing the uterus) |
Can prevent pregnancy or cause repeated miscarriages. |
| Acquired Uterine Conditions | Develop later due to infections, surgery, or other factors. | -Asherman’s syndrome (scar tissue inside the uterus)
-Uterine fibroids (non-cancerous growths that block pregnancy) |
Can block implantation, change uterus shape, or cause miscarriages. |
| Structural Abnormalities | Irregular uterus shape from birth. | -Bicornuate uterus (heart-shaped uterus)
-Unicornuate uterus (small, one-sided uterus) |
May cause miscarriages or difficulty carrying a pregnancy. |
| Functional Uterine Issues | The uterus is present but does not function properly. | -Thin endometrium (lining too thin for implantation)
-Chronic inflammation (affects embryo attachment) |
Can prevent embryo implantation or lead to pregnancy loss. |
Causes Of Uterine Factor Infertility
UFI can be caused by different conditions that affect the structure or function of the uterus. Here are the main causes:
- Congenital Abnormalities: Some women are born with a missing or irregularly shaped uterus. Conditions like Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome result in an absent or underdeveloped uterus. A uterine septum, where a wall divides the uterus, can also affect pregnancy.
- Uterine Fibroids: These are non-cancerous growths in the uterus. Fibroids can block the fallopian tubes and change the shape of the uterus. They can also make implantation difficult.
- Asherman’s Syndrome (Uterine Scarring): This happens when scar tissue forms inside the uterus. This happens due to infections, past surgeries, or repeated dilation and curettage (D&C) procedures. The scar tissue can prevent a fertilized egg from implanting.
- Endometrial Issues: A thin endometrial lining can prevent successful implantation. Chronic endometritis (inflammation of the uterus) can also affect fertility.
- Previous Surgeries or Infections: Surgeries like myomectomy (fibroid removal) or C-sections can sometimes cause damage or scarring in the uterus. Pelvic infections can also lead to uterine abnormalities.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Certain hormonal issues can prevent the uterus from maintaining a healthy environment for pregnancy. Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also affect the uterine lining.
Uterine Factor Infertility Symptoms
UFI can cause different symptoms which depend on the underlying condition. Some women may not notice any signs until they try to have a baby. Here are the common symptoms:
- Irregular or Absent Periods: Your menstrual cycles may be completely absent or irregular if the uterus is missing or not functioning properly.
- Painful Periods (Dysmenorrhea): Conditions like fibroids or endometriosis can cause severe cramping and pelvic pain during menstruation.
- Recurrent Miscarriages: Women with uterine abnormalities may experience repeated pregnancy loss because the uterus cannot support a growing baby.
- Difficulty Getting Pregnant: It may be harder for a fertilized egg to implant and develop into a pregnancy if the uterus has structural issues or scarring.
- Pelvic Pain or Pressure: Fibroids, scarring, or infections can cause discomfort, heaviness, or pain in the lower abdomen.
- Unusual Menstrual Bleeding: Heavy, prolonged, or irregular bleeding may indicate fibroids, scarring, or other uterine problems.
Important Note: If you experience any of these symptoms and are struggling to conceive, it’s important to consult a fertility specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. You can also consult our senior fertility specialist, Dr. Rita Bakshi.
Uterine Factor Infertility Diagnosis
Diagnosing UFI involves several tests to check the structure and function of the uterus. Doctors use different methods based on the suspected cause.
- Ultrasound: A pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound helps doctors to see the uterus. It also helps to detect fibroids, polyps, or structural abnormalities.
- Hysterosalpingography (HSG): This is an X-ray test where a special dye is injected into the uterus. It helps to check for blockages, shape abnormalities, or scarring.
- Hysteroscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the uterus. It examines the inside and detects problems like scarring, polyps, or a uterine septum.
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): This test provides a detailed image of the uterus. It is also helpful for diagnosing congenital abnormalities or deep fibroids.
- Sonohysterography (Saline Infusion Sonography): A saline solution is injected into the uterus during an ultrasound. It helps to give a clearer view of the shape and lining.
- Endometrial Biopsy: A small sample of the uterine lining is taken to check for infections, inflammation, or hormonal issues affecting implantation.
If you’re facing issues conceiving or had multiple miscarriages, these tests can help identify the cause. Your doctor will guide you for the best treatment options available according to your health.
Treatment of Uterine Factor Infertility
The treatment for uterine factor infertility depends on the cause. There are some conditions that can be treated with surgery or medication. However, some others may require assisted reproductive techniques.
- Medications: If the uterine lining is too thin, doctors may give hormonal treatments. Antibiotics can also help if there is an infection. Additionally, there are other medicines that may improve the uterus’s condition.
- Surgery: Hysteroscopic surgery can remove fibroids, polyps, or scar tissue. A metroplasty can also fix a uterine septum.
- Uterine Transplant: This is an option for Absolute Uterine Factor Infertility (AUFI). A donor uterus is needed in this but it’s still a rare procedure.
- In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): IVF can help in this situation if surgery does not work. In this, the embryo is made outside the body and is then placed in the uterus.
Note: Each treatment depends on the specific condition. A fertility specialist can help you choose the best treatment.
How to Prevent Uterine Factor Infertility?
It’s important to know that you cannot prevent every UFI. However, there are some steps that can help to protect your uterine health and reduce risks.
- Maintain Good Reproductive Health: Regular gynecological check-ups can help find out the issues early. Timely treatment of infections can prevent complications.
- Prevent Infections: Practice safe sex to avoid sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Untreated STIs can lead to pelvic infections and scarring in the uterus.
- Avoid Unnecessary Uterine Procedures: Repeated dilation and curettage (D&C) or other uterine surgeries can cause scarring. It’s best to discuss the alternatives with a doctor.
- Manage Hormonal Health: Some conditions like PCOS and endometriosis can affect the uterus. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper medical care can help in preventing this issue.
- Reduce Risk of Fibroids: Try to maintain a healthy weight and follow a balanced diet. This may lower the risk of fibroids, which can impact fertility.
Important Note: Early detection and a healthy lifestyle can improve uterine health and fertility. If you have any questions related to fertility and overall health, it’s best to consult a doctor for proper guidance.
Final Line
In this blog, we discussed uterine factor infertility in detail. We have explained its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Some women are born with uterine issues, while others develop them later. Conditions like fibroids, scarring, and thin endometrium can make pregnancy difficult. Your doctor can diagnose this issue through ultrasound, HSG, and hysteroscopy. Additionally, there are treatments like medications, surgery, IVF, or surrogacy which can help.
At RISAA IVF, our senior fertility expert, Dr. Rita Bakshi offers expert care for infertility. If you need guidance, we are here to help. Contact us today for expert advice and support. You can call us at 95555 44421/22/23 or send a mail at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q.1 How does adenomyosis relate to UFI?
Adenomyosis, where the uterine lining grows into the uterine muscle, can cause heavy bleeding and pain and can potentially affect fertility.
Q.2 Can endometrial polyps lead to UFI?
Yes, endometrial polyps can cause irregular bleeding and may contribute to infertility.
Q.3 What is the difference between congenital and acquired UFI?
Congenital UFI is present from birth due to developmental issues. However, acquired UFI develops later, often from surgeries, infections, or other uterine conditions.
Q.4 Can UFI be asymptomatic?
Yes, some individuals with UFI may not experience noticeable symptoms until they face challenges with conception.