There is no way to prevent infertility, per se, because there are many factors that contribute to your ability to ovulate, conceive and carry a pregnancy to term. Likewise, your male partner also has numerous factors — natural and environmental — that can contribute to infertility. The condition is not exclusively a woman's problem. About one third of infertility cases involve male factor problems alone, and approximately one third of cases involve problems with both partners.

For women, factors that could lead to infertility include:

• Excessive, or very low, body fat, which can affect ovulation and fertility.

• Chronic, debilitating diseases, such as unregulated diabetes, lupus or thyroid problems, that can interfere with normal ovarian function. Also, some medications such as high-dose steroids, can interrupt ovulations. If you have a chronic condition, be sure to discuss it with your health care professional. Most women with chronic conditions can become pregnant, have a healthy pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby.

• Polycystic ovarian syndrome. Symptoms include lack of periods, excessive facial hair, weight gain and acne

• Treatment for abnormal pap smears, including cryosurgery or cone biopsy that can affect the structure of the cervix.