Infertility is simply defined as not being able to get pregnant after trying for six months (in the case of women who are 35 years old or older) or a year. Women who are unable to stay pregnant may also be defined as being infertile. There are a number of factors that have been linked to infertility, such as environmental exposures, genetics, and infectious diseases. In addition to that, the risk of infertility increases with age. Infertility can affect both men and women.
Infertility stats
According to data, there are millions of couples worldwide that suffer from infertility. Infact just in India, a recent article showed this number was 27.5 million. In addition, research shows that secondary infertility is more common than primary infertility (secondary infertility refers to women who had at least one pregnancy and gave birth in the past, while primary infertility refers to women who have no biological children). A 2010 analysis showed that 2% of women around the world experienced primary infertility, while 10.5% of women experienced second infertility. It is no surprise that number of people considering In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in India is growing.
Overall, infertility prevalence rates on a global level are hard to determine, due to the fact that there are many factors on both sides (men and women) which make estimations difficult. An evaluation from a 1990 survey showed that in developing countries, one in four couples experience infertility. Moreover, a study published by the World Health Organization showed that infertility in women from a total of 190 remained similar in both estimated levels and trends from 1990 all the way to 2010.
Infertility misconceptions (both male and female)
There are a number of myths and misconceptions surrounding infertility.
- Women don’t lose their fertility until they are in their late 30s or in their early 40s. The reality is that fertility in women starts declining when they are 27. Age plays a role when it comes to fertility, but there are more factors at play.
- A man’s sperm count can’t be improved. In reality, there are various treatments and lifestyle changes that can be approached in order to improve sperm count.
- A man’s fertility is age-proof. While men can father children when they are older, their fertility decline during their 40s.
- Intercourse on the day of ovulation increases the chance of conception. This is a common belief; however, the chances of conception are higher if intercourse occurs one or two days prior to ovulation.
- The pill led to infertility. In some cases, women might feel that infertility is the result of long periods of times of being on the pill. However, the pill doesn’t harm the ovulation cycle. Which means that once a woman stops taking the pill, the fertility goes back to its normal state.
- Infertility means that conception is not possible. In reality, infertility is simply defined as being unable to have a child after 6 or 12 months of trying (depending on age). However, there are treatment options available that could lead to conception.
- IVF is the only option. There are a number of available treatment options, from intrauterine insemination to medication or timed intercourse.
Why consult a fertility specialist
Through Mya Care you can search for Fertility specialist, IVF in India and much more. Due to the fact that there are several treatment options for couples who are trying to have children (from basic drug treatments all the way to IVF, by going to a specialist they can learn more about what their options are before continuing to attempt to have children.