India’s approach to infertility is changing fast. More couples are turning to fertility treatments later in life. The World Health Organization now says that 1 in 6 people globally face infertility, officially labeling it a disease and a public health issue.
Experts like Dr. Beena Muktesh and Dr. Sonia Malik see shifts in who seeks help. Dr. Muktesh notes that many women now consult at 30 instead of 28, reflecting a trend of delayed pregnancies. There’s also a rise in secondary infertility, likely due to lifestyle changes and career priorities.
Statistics show that around 1 in 6 couples in India struggle with infertility. This issue isn’t just a city phenomenon; it’s growing in Tier-2 and Tier-3 areas as awareness improves.
Dr. Vidya V Bhat points out that male factor infertility is contributing to nearly half of infertility cases. This shift is concerning and emphasizes the need for targeted education and intervention.
The rising incidence of infertility is tied to modern lifestyles. “Obesity and sedentary work are big problems,” says Dr. Muktesh. Hormonal imbalances and poor sperm quality are direct results of unhealthy living. High stress, poor diets, and lack of sleep further worsen the situation. Research indicates that inadequate sleep negatively affects both male and female reproductive health.
Dr. Anjana Annal highlights that environmental factors also play a role, especially in urban areas. Exposure to air pollution, chemicals, and pesticides can lead to reduced sperm quality and hormonal disruptions in women. Even rural populations aren’t immune, with high pesticide use impacting fertility.
On the treatment front, improvements in assisted reproductive technology (ART) have made a difference. Dr. Annal mentions better protocols and techniques, making treatments safer and more effective. Personalization of treatments is also on the rise. Clinics are beginning to use AI to enhance embryo selection, although this technology is still a tool, not a replacement for expert judgment.
Financial barriers remain significant. An analysis from the ICMR indicates that IVF cycles can cost between ₹1.1 lakh and ₹3 lakhs, making access challenging for many couples. Dr. Bhat points out that many people drop out of treatment due to costs, particularly after unsuccessful attempts. There’s a strong call among experts for fertility treatments to be included in health insurance plans to ease this financial burden.
Lastly, there’s a pervasive stigma around infertility that often goes unaddressed. Mental health is a crucial component of the journey. M J Saranya, a psychological counselor, emphasizes the importance of emotional support for couples facing infertility. Integrating mental health services with fertility treatments can help ease the emotional strain and improve overall outcomes.
As awareness grows, the focus needs to shift to providing better mental health support, improving access to treatments, and effectively integrating advanced technologies in a way that enhances care without making it prohibitively expensive. With the right changes, India can create a more supportive environment for those struggling with infertility.
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