Antiphospholipid Antibodies (APA) - Causes of Female Infertility

These are special cells which are designed to repel foreign bodies such as bacteria and infections.

But things can go wrong with the result that these antibodies end up attacking our own cells rather than those of an invader. What happens then is that these antibodies (which are a type of protein) flow through the bloodstream and then bind themselves to cell membranes within that bloodstream. This causes them to become sticky which inhibits blood flow and can lead to blood clots.

And these blood clots can cause a whole range of infertility problems such as:

• Stillborn baby
• IVF failure
• Reoccurring miscarriage

A blood test can detect the levels of antiphospolipid antibodies in your bloodstream. Treatment includes an anti-coagulant such as Heparin and a low dose aspirin.

Female Infertility Guide Index:

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• Polycystic ovarian syndrome (POS)
• Endometriosis
• Fibroids
• Hostile cervical mucus
• Tubal blockage
• Anovulation
• Obesity
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

• Amenorrhea
• Antiphospholipid Antibodies (APA)
• Hypothyroidism
• Age and egg quality
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Smoking and alcohol consumption
• Contraception
• Prescription medicines

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