Infertility
What is infertility?
Infertility simply means a couple has been trying for a year (or six months if the woman is over 35) without success. If a woman has never been pregnant, it’s called primary infertility. If she has had a child before but is struggling now, that’s secondary infertility.
Misconceptions about infertility?
- African culture often blames women, but men can be infertile too! In fact, both men and women are equally likely to have fertility issues.
- A man who has fathered children before can still have fertility problems now.
- Age, lifestyle, and medical conditions can affect fertility for both men and women.
What affects male fertility?
- Low sperm count or weak sperm.
- Tight underwear & heat.
- Smoking, alcohol, and drugs.
- Medical conditions like diabetes, infections, and hormonal imbalances.
What affects female fertility?
- Irregular ovulation.
- Blocked fallopian tubes.
- Uterine fibroids & endometriosis.
- Age, weight, and lifestyle.
When should you see a doctor?
- Men: If there are erection issues, low sex drive, or pain in the genital area.
- Women: If periods are irregular, painful, or absent.
- If you’ve been trying for a year (or six months if over 35) without success.
Doctors can do simple tests like sperm analysis for men and ultrasound or hormone checks for women.
What are the solutions?
- Lifestyle changes – Eat well, exercise, reduce stress, and quit bad habits.
- Medications – Can help fix hormone problems and improve fertility.
- Surgery – To remove fibroids, unblock tubes, or correct male reproductive issues.
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) – Includes IVF, where eggs and sperm meet in a lab before being placed in the womb.