Cervical Factor Infertility
Fertility impairment due to cervical abnormalities affecting sperm transport. May involve cervical mucus quality or structural defects.
Full Definition
A category of infertility caused by cervical factors that impair sperm transit through the cervix into the upper reproductive tract. This can result from poor cervical mucus quality (thick, acidic, or insufficient), structural abnormalities from previous surgery or trauma, infections, or hormonal deficiencies affecting mucus production. Historically diagnosed through post-coital testing, though this test is now less commonly performed. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) bypasses cervical factors by placing prepared sperm directly into the uterine cavity. Cervical stenosis from previous procedures like cone biopsy or LEEP can also contribute to this condition.
Usage
Usage note: Post-coital testing is controversial and not routinely recommended in current guidelines.
In Context
- "Cervical factor infertility was suspected due to consistently poor post-coital test results." — Diagnostic evaluation
- "IUI was recommended to bypass suspected cervical factor infertility in this unexplained infertility case." — Treatment recommendation