As the world observes World Fertility Day on November 2, Dr. Anurag Vashista, a specialist in reproductive medicine at Harley Street Fertility Centre, stresses the importance of addressing fertility issues as a medical concern, rather than a personal failure. He advises couples to consult a fertility specialist after 12 months of trying without success if the woman is under 35 years old. For women aged 35 or older, a consultation is recommended after six months, and for those over 40, an even earlier consultation is suggested.
The Dr. notes that fertility difficulties can arise from various medical factors and do not imply that one partner has done anything wrong. He encourages couples to approach the issue together, without taboo or stigmatization, and to seek help when needed. A first consultation can help couples understand their situation and consider next steps. This experience can also have a significant emotional impact, with alternating hope and disappointment, pressure from those around them, and social expectations.
Dr. Vashista highlights that fertility issues can affect both men and women, with factors such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and hormonal imbalances affecting women, while men may experience low sperm count, reduced motility, or abnormal sperm morphology. Lifestyle factors, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity, can also impact reproductive health. The Dr. emphasizes that the presence of a risk factor does not mean pregnancy is impossible, and a healthy lifestyle does not guarantee conception.
The specialist stresses that fertility is a shared issue, and both partners should be involved in the medical process from the start. However, women often bear the brunt of medical examinations and emotional weight related to fertility difficulties. Dr. Vashista advocates for a joint approach to identify factors contributing to infertility and adapt treatment accordingly. This may involve assessing menstrual cycles, ovulation, and medical history in women, as well as semen analysis in men.
Dr. Vashista notes that infertility can be a challenging topic for men, with some hesitant to consult or believing that everything is fine in the absence of symptoms. However, problems with sperm production or function can exist without visible signs. He emphasizes that neither partner should bear sole responsibility for fertility difficulties and that treatment should focus on understanding the medical situation rather than assigning blame.
In some cases, both partners may present factors affecting fertility, or examinations may not identify a clear cause. Dr. Vashista explains that this can result in combined infertility or unexplained infertility, with various possibilities for treatment and support. He encourages couples to communicate openly, participate in consultations, and make joint decisions to strengthen their mutual support.
Ultimately, Dr. Vashista emphasizes that seeking help for fertility issues is a positive step, and no couple should feel ashamed of asking for assistance. By adopting a joint approach and focusing on the medical aspects of fertility, couples can navigate this challenging experience together, without stigma or blame.
Key points
- Dr. Anurag Vashista encourages couples to seek fertility help after 12 months of trying without success if the woman is under 35.
- Fertility issues can arise from various medical factors and do not imply that one partner has done anything wrong.
- A joint approach to fertility treatment can help identify contributing factors and adapt treatment accordingly.
