What Is Female Infertility?
Female infertility refers to the inability to conceive or maintain a pregnancy, affecting about 15% of couples of reproductive age worldwide. At the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR), founded by Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. David H. Barad, we understand the challenges of infertility and have dedicated our research and clinical efforts since 1981 to providing comprehensive knowledge and treatment. For women under the age of 35, infertility is diagnosed when they fail to conceive after one year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. In addition, couples who can conceive but experience repeat miscarriages may also be considered infertile. Our practice in New York, NY emphasizes the importance of understanding your personal fertility to choose the treatment plan that best suits your needs.
How can CHR help with infertility?
As a leading fertility research and treatment center, CHR often serves as a "fertility center of last resort" for patients from around the world who have experienced multiple IVF failures. We aim to support not only those who have become "expert patients" through long treatment journeys but also individuals who are new to fertility treatments. Dr. Gleicher and Dr. Barad's expertise in treating complex fertility issues, such as endometriosis, PCOS, and tubal infertility, helps us provide individualized care. We offer a wide range of treatment options, from basic infertility diagnosis to advanced procedures like IVF and fertility medications, ensuring each patient receives tailored support on their path to parenthood.
How Is Infertility Diagnosed?
Female infertility can be diagnosed in couples under the age of 35 who have been having regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for over a year without conceiving. However, older couples may not have the luxury of waiting due to the limited female reproductive timeframe so they should seek professional evaluation sooner. At the Center for Human Reproduction in New York, NY, diagnosing female infertility involves a series of tests to identify the underlying causes. These tests often include a detailed health, social, and sexual history interview, pelvic examination, hormone evaluations, and testing for sexually transmitted diseases. Additional tests may consist of ovulation testing, hysterosalpingogram (HSG), hysterosonogram (HSN), semen analysis for the male partner, genetic testing, and sometimes laparoscopy for a more comprehensive evaluation. These diagnostic procedures help pinpoint the specific factors affecting fertility, allowing for more personalized and effective treatment plans.
What Are the Major Causes of Female Infertility?
Reproduction is a complex function involving many factors that can affect a couple's ability to conceive. At the Center for Human Reproduction, Dr. Gleicher and Dr. Barad found that approximately 60% of the infertility cases we see are attributed to female factors. However, this ratio is typically lower in the general population. Female infertility can arise from a variety of causes, including anatomical, hormonal, environmental, and genetic factors, that interfere with normal reproductive functions. Some common causes of female infertility include:
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Endometriosis
- Fallopian tube damage
- Premature ovarian failure (POF)
- Premature ovarian aging (POA)
- Hormonal imbalances
- Autoimmune diseases
- Ovulatory dysfunction
- Luteal phase defect
- Fibroids
- Medications
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Genetic factors
- Age
Understanding these factors is crucial in diagnosing and treating infertility, and at CHR, our fertility specialists are dedicated to providing personalized care to address each woman's unique reproductive challenges.
Center For Human Reproduction Reviews
I really appreciate Dr. Gleicher for not dismissing me because of my age. I have more hope for our family building working with his team.
The best in vitro clinics are not only professional, they also treat you as if you were part of the family. I have my 6-year-old daughter thanks to that great team.
Dr Gleicher and Dr Barad changed our lives! After many failed ivf attempts and miscarriages from natural conceptions, I booked a call with Dr Gleicher as his YouTube on being hypoallergenic and thyroid issues can cause miscarriage. He correctly diagnosed me on the phone and then confirmed with blood tests I have an autoimmune disorder (ANA positive) and need steroids the first trimester. He implanted 2 embryos (created when I was 43/44 and at age 47 I got pregnant!) I have a healthy 3 year old now. I only wish I would have talked to him earlier. Dr Barad did the implantation and has a great technique, this is art and science! I can’t thank them enough!
The most knowledgeable, professional and caring medical staff. Feel truly cared for during this difficult journey.
Our daughter had her first birthday on February 6th. She’s extremely smart, and super sweet. She brings us so much joy, and we can never adequately thank Dr. Barad enough for all his help to make it possible!
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Why Choose CHR for Female Infertility Care?
The Center for Human Reproduction is a premier choice for female infertility care due to our extensive experience and cutting-edge research. Led by Dr. Gleicher and Dr. Barad, our team of specialists is committed to providing individualized treatment plans based on the latest scientific findings. We regularly treat complex cases, offering hope to those with long treatment histories or multiple IVF failures. Trust in our commitment to support and guide you on your journey to parenthood.
