USC Fertility

Understanding Female Fertility

Discover important facts about female fertility

Many people believe that once they decide to start a family, they will get pregnant instantly and welcome a healthy baby nine months later. According to the CDC, over 6 million women in the U.S. have trouble conceiving or carrying a pregnancy to term. At our Los Angeles fertility center, our doctors want patients to understand female fertility so that they can recognize any fertility issues early and receive the appropriate treatment. USC Fertility works with patients to diagnose and treat the common causes of infertility.

Reviewing female reproductive basics

Female fertility begins when a woman goes through puberty. At that time, women begin having regular menstrual cycles. For conception to occur, the ovaries must release an egg during ovulation. The egg then travels through the fallopian tubes to the uterus. Along the way, the sperm will fertilize the egg and the fertilized egg will implant in the uterus. Any disruption in this process can result in fertility problems.

Although men continue to produce sperm throughout their lives, women are born with all the eggs they will ever have. When they reach puberty and begin to have monthly cycles, women generally release one egg each month. As women age, the quantity and quality of the eggs begin to decrease. Fertility peaks in a woman’s 20s and declines as a woman approaches 40.

Take the right steps to maximize female fertility

When you decide to start a family, you and your partner need to understand the basics about fertility. For women who want to achieve pregnancy, our Los Angeles fertility center offers the following tips.

  • Commit to living a daily lifestyle that includes balanced eating and regular exercise.
  • Maintain a weight that keeps your BMI (body mass index) in a healthy range.
  • Limit alcohol consumption and don’t use tobacco products.
  • Avoid prolonged exposure to environmental toxins.
  • Consider scheduling an appointment with a fertility expert if you haven’t had luck after 12 months of trying to conceive, or six months for women over age 35.

If you have questions about female fertility and your chances of conceiving, the team at our Los Angeles fertility center can address your concerns. During your visit, your doctor will review your specific situation in more detail. Contact us for more information or to schedule a consultation appointment.