June is World Infertility Awareness Month, a time to shed light on a global health issue that impacts millions yet remains largely unspoken.
Infertility weaves a complex narrative, one that reaches beyond mere biology and touches the emotional fabric of lives across diverse backgrounds.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), an estimated 1 in 6 adults worldwide will face infertility at some point in their life, making it a shared challenge deserving of our attention.
“We need to raise awareness about the causes of infertility, promote early diagnosis and treatment, and improve access to fertility care for those who need it,” says Dr Lusanda Shimange-Matsose, a fertility specialist and director at Medfem Fertility Clinic.
Infertility is not just a woman’s issue
Often, infertility is mistakenly assumed to be solely a women’s struggle. However, Dr Anthony Picton, a fertility specialist at Vitalab Fertility Clinic, elucidates a broader perspective.
“Male factor infertility is responsible for about 40% of cases,” he states. “Yet, it’s often ignored. In many African communities, women are still blamed first, even when the issue lies with the male partner. We need to correct that through better awareness.”
Education about reproductive biology is vital.
“We’re taught how to avoid pregnancy, but not how to understand fertility. Many people overlook the importance of understanding the timing of intercourse relative to ovulation.”
For both men and women, recognizing contributing factors to infertility is essential.
For men, fertility challenges can arise from a range of issues including low sperm count, poor motility, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle factors such as substance use or exposure to environmental toxins.
Surprisingly, even testosterone supplementation can adversely affect sperm production, a crushing reality often overlooked.
“Physical health doesn’t always equate to reproductive health,” Dr Shimange-Matsose explained.
On the female side, infertility can stem from conditions like ovulatory disorders, endometriosis, or structural abnormalities. Age remains a significant factor, as fertility generally declines after age 35, with a more dramatic decrease from 37 onwards due to diminishing egg quantity and quality.
The emotional toll of infertility
The emotional ramifications of infertility can be profound yet are frequently minimised.
Dr Shimange-Matsose notes, “While the financial cost of treatments like in vitro fertilisation (IVF) captures attention, the emotional burden—stress, anxiety, depression, and even relationship strain—can skew one’s overall wellbeing.”
Experts advocate for earlier consultations, not just to identify medical concerns, but to access vital emotional support offered by fertility clinics.
“Infertility should be approached as a shared journey,” Dr Shimange-Matsose said.
“When couples work together, they cultivate a more informed and supported path to parenthood.”
Fertility preservation as proactive planning
Increasing numbers of individuals are opting to delay family planning for various reasons, leading to a rising interest in fertility preservation techniques, such as egg or sperm freezing.
“Elective egg freezing is gaining popularity among women wishing to secure their fertility for future use,” said Dr Picton.
The best time for women to freeze eggs is in their late 20s to early 30s, a period when egg quality is optimal.
As understanding of fertility preservation advances, societal attitudes are shifting.
“Egg freezing is increasingly perceived as a proactive measure, akin to an insurance policy for the future,” noted Dr Shimange-Matsose.
With this new perspective, more women are returning to utilise their frozen eggs later in life.
Additionally, workplaces worldwide are beginning to recognise the significance of reproductive health in workforce wellbeing, with some employers incorporating fertility benefits into executive packages, a promising trend that supports the alignment of reproductive and professional aspirations.
Taking the first step
If you are contemplating starting a family or wish to understand your fertility options, don’t hesitate.
Consulting with a fertility specialist can illuminate pathways to understanding challenges and expanding options.
Early diagnosis and proactive measures can increase the likelihood of successful pregnancies while alleviating emotional distress.
