Specialists in reproductive medicine in Tunisia have noted a significant decline in fertility rates, with multiple factors contributing to this trend. The country's fertility rate has decreased from 2.4 children per woman in 2016 to 1.5 in 2024, according to the National Institute of Statistics. This decline is accompanied by a decrease in births, from 219,441 in 2016 to 126,401 in 2024.
The decline in fertility rates is attributed to various factors, including delayed marriage and childbearing, economic difficulties, and changing lifestyles. Dr. Mohamed Khrouf, a specialist in reproductive assistance, notes that age is a critical factor, particularly for women, as fertility declines with age, especially after 35. He also highlights that lifestyle choices, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity, can impact fertility in both men and women.
Experts emphasize the importance of awareness and education on reproductive health. Dr. Bashir Zouawi, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology, advocates for integrating reproductive health education into school curricula and strengthening the role of pre-marital clinics. He also notes that Tunisia has made significant progress in reproductive medicine, with modern technologies and qualified professionals available.
The Fifth Reproductive Medicine Conference, organized by the Tunisian Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology, brings together experts from Tunisia and abroad to discuss the latest developments in reproductive medicine. The conference focuses on the role of artificial intelligence in reproductive medicine, including data analysis and decision-making support.
Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in reproductive medicine to improve treatment outcomes. Conference attendees explore the potential of AI in evaluating and selecting sperm or embryos for assisted reproduction. However, experts stress that AI is a tool to support medical decision-making, not replace it.
The Tunisian Association of Obstetrics and Gynecology has proposed revising the reproductive medicine law to allow women to freeze their eggs for future use, currently only permitted in specific medical situations. This move aims to provide women with greater reproductive autonomy and flexibility.
Addressing declining fertility rates requires a comprehensive approach, including prevention, awareness, and education, as well as continued development of assisted reproduction technologies and AI-assisted solutions. Experts agree that a multifaceted approach is necessary to address the complex factors contributing to declining fertility rates in Tunisia.
Key points
- Tunisia's fertility rate has declined from 2.4 children per woman in 2016 to 1.5 in 2024.
- Experts cite multiple factors contributing to declining fertility rates, including delayed marriage and childbearing, economic difficulties, and changing lifestyles.
- Artificial intelligence is being explored as a tool to improve treatment outcomes in reproductive medicine.
