Final answer:
Female infertility may be due to ovulatory dysfunction, such as PCOS, or structural problems in the uterus or Fallopian tubes, like endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Pelvic inflammatory disease can also cause scarring that impedes fertility.
Step-by-step explanation:
Infertility in women can stem from various causes, including both ovulatory dysfunction and structural issues in the reproductive system. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent cause of ovulatory dysfunction, where the ovaries fail to release viable eggs regularly, leading to anovulatory cycles. Structural complications within the Fallopian tubes or uterus, such as those caused by endometriosis or uterine fibroids, can prevent sperm from reaching eggs or hinder proper implantation and development of the embryo.
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) exemplifies an infection-induced condition that can lead to the scarring and blockage of Fallopian tubes, significantly increasing the risk of infertility. Lifestyle factors like smoking, stress, and poor diet, as well as advanced age, further contribute to the risk of infertility in women. Diagnosis of infertility typically involves assessing both male and female partners for potential issues, with treatments ranging from hormonal therapy to stimulate ovulation to surgical interventions for physical obstructions.