Final answer:
The three most common causes of female factor infertility are ovulation disorders like PCOS, structural issues such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids, and age-related decline in fertility after age 30.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common Causes of Female Infertility
The three most common causes of female factor infertility include disorders related to ovulation, structural issues of the reproductive system, and age-related factors. Firstly, ovulation disorders such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Primary Ovarian Insufficiency are significant contributors, where the former is a condition with multiple cysts on the ovaries that affects hormone levels, and the latter is when ovaries stop producing viable eggs prematurely. Secondly, structural problems in the Fallopian tubes or uterus, such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids, can prevent egg fertilization or implantation in the uterus. Lastly, age plays a crucial role, as after the age of 30, female fertility begins to decline, with more anovulatory cycles and less healthy eggs as women approach menopause.
Additional risk factors can amplify these issues, including lifestyle choices like smoking, stress, and poor diet, as well as being underweight or overweight. Diagnosing female infertility involves monitoring signs of ovulation and possibly imaging the reproductive tract to identify any abnormalities.