These days, we often come across the term ‘infertility’. But, before rushing further or visiting any best IVF centre in Bangalore or in any other city, let us understand the meaning of the word ‘Infertility’. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), fertility refers to a disease present in the reproductive system of either male or female or both, due to which it becomes impossible for couples to conceive naturally even after 12 months of regular or unprotected sex or sexual intercourse. However, there are several reasons for infertility in the female and male reproductive systems. Either male or female or both can be responsible, but due to taboo or age-old beliefs, females are majorly found responsible for infertility. As a result, she has to undergo infertility treatment. Thus, we have identified certain myths around infertility that need to be busted and understood.
Cause for infertility:
The causes in both men and women with respect to infertility differ.
In Men:
- Sperm movement or motility
- Morphology or abnormal shape of sperm
- Low sperm level
- Sperm ejection
In Women:
- Disorders of ovaries
- Uterine disorders
- Imbalance of reproductive hormone
- Blocked fallopian tube
Myths about Infertility
The following are certain myths around infertility which need to be busted and unlearned.
- It is the woman who is infertile:
This is one of the biggest myths. It is not just the woman who is infertile rather; a man can also be infertile. Unfortunately, a woman is always blamed when she is unable to convince, and hence it is she who has to undergo fertility treatment. Still, no one thinks that it could be a man as well. As a result, the real reason is not known, and a woman goes through it. So, it is essential to embrace the fact that anyone, either male or female, can be infertile. This is not specific to any one gender.
- Using pills or contraceptives can lead to infertility:
It is believed that if pills or contraceptives are used at regular intervals, then this could cause infertility. However, these do not create any positive or negative impact on the fertility of both males and females.
- Infertility can only be in couples above 35 years:
Well, people often think or believe that infertility is seen in males and females who are above 35 years old. Rather age has no relation with infertility in a male or female. Infertility can be present in younger age brackets as well.
- If a man is ejaculating, then he is fertile:
Identifying male fertility is not easy. There are times when there are hardly any signs which could depict male infertility. This could be due to a lower sperm count. Moreover, the shape of sperm and movement of sperm is responsible for deciding infertility in males. It has also been seen that males who are on more than 3 medicines a day might have a lower sperm count. Also, high blood pressure can impact the fertility of males.
Conclusion
These are some of the myths about infertility that should be understood. Hence, a couple once should not jump to the conclusion of being infertile if they are unable to conceive. Rather, it is best to consult a doctor or self-analyze.