Infertility: Problems With the Uterus and Cervix

Problems with a woman’s uterus and/or cervix may be caused by many things. Causes include: Abnormalities of the uterus. These may have been present from birth. A past surgery or procedure, such as a cervical cone biopsy or a dilation and curettage (D&C). These may decrease fertility if the procedures have damaged the…

Infertility: Problems With the Uterus and Cervix

Topic Overview

Problems with a woman’s uterus and/or cervix may be caused by many things. Causes include:

  • Abnormalities of the uterus. These may have been present from birth.
  • A past surgery or procedure, such as a cervical cone biopsy or a dilation and curettage (D&C). These may decrease fertility if the procedures have damaged the cervix or uterine lining. (This is rare.)
  • Exposure to certain drugs before birth, such as DES. These may cause deformities of the uterus, resulting in infertility.
  • Abnormalities in a woman’s cervical mucus. These may affect the movement of sperm through the vagina and cervix.
  • Antibodies to sperm present in a woman’s cervical mucus. These may kill the sperm or affect their ability to move normally.

Related Information

Credits

Current as ofMay 29, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: Kathleen Romito MD – Family Medicine
Adam Husney MD – Family Medicine
Femi Olatunbosun MB, FRCSC – Obstetrics and Gynecology

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.