The prevalence of primary infertility in India is a serious concern as the ratio of infertility is showing an alarming rise. It is estimated that 1 in 5 couples in Urban areas is dealing with infertility whereas in rural India, it is 1 out of 6. This shows that fertility problems are not limited to metro cities but the rural population is also facing troubles. As per the data of the World Health Organization, the estimated percentage of primary infertility in India ranges between 4% to 16%. Looking at this data, we can consider infertility an epidemic in the country.
National Infertility Awareness Week is observed every year in the month of April to raise awareness about infertility being an issue that affects many and deserves comprehensive coverage.
Who is to be blamed for infertility: men or women?
The sad reality of our country is that in most cases, women are blamed for infertility! Women are easy to blame as male ego stops men from undergoing fertility testing. This is sad and unfortunate. According to Dr Prachi Benara, Senior Consultant and Centre Head, Birla Fertility and IVF Gurugram, both men and women are equally responsible. “The likelihood of infertility is 35% in men; 35% in women and the rest is unexplained infertility,” shares Dr Benara.
Being secretive and nonvocal about fertility problems is one of the major reasons why it still remains untreated and a taboo subject. Earlier, couples were hesitant to talk about their sexual problems with anyone let alone a fertility expert. However, with increased awareness, a gradual shift is seen where couples now see a fertility expert to resolve their issues.
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Recalling a case, Dr Benara shares, “A woman in 16 years of marriage came for consultation where all her test results were normal. Shockingly, the husband never underwent any fertility testing all these years. The family only took the woman from one doctor to another for treatment but it all went in vain. Upon conducting the husband’s semen analysis, it was found that pregnancy was not happening because of his poor results.”
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While this is still the case in many parts of the country, doctors have seen a paradigm shift in fertility consultations over a decade. Couples now come together for consultations and willingly proceed with the required treatment.
Also Read: Legal and Financial Aspects of IVF : What You Need to Know Before Starting
Causes of Infertility
Dr Benara lists out potential causes of infertility in both men and women, these are:
- Age- Our biological clock is one of the major indicators of fertility. Gradually with age, fertility declines which is why couples who plan late pregnancies face issues.
- Alcohol/Smoking/Tobacco Abuse- People who consume alcohol regularly and above safe limits; active smokers; and tobacco abusers are at a greater risk of developing infertility.
- Sedentary Lifestyle- Active lifestyle is important for physical as well as reproductive health. People who have a sedentary lifestyle and develop body fat over time are highly likely to suffer from fertility problems caused by lifestyle factors.
- Excessive Consumption of Protein powder- This is a shocker because as per Dr Benara, protein powder abuse, which is very common these days in gym-goers can obstruct sperm production in men which eventually leads to infertility.
Summing up, with rising cases of infertility, it is high time that we become vigilant and take command of our health. Adapting a healthy and active lifestyle is necessary along with regular medical checkups. Consult a fertility expert to resolve your issues and enjoy parenthood.