What Do I Need to Know About Fertility?

Introduction

Fertility is your body's ability to get pregnant and carry a healthy baby. Whether you're planning to have children, already have children and want more, or are simply curious about your reproductive health, understanding fertility is important for every woman. This guide will help you understand what affects your fertility and how you can protect your reproductive health.

3 Important Facts About Fertility

1. Fertility affects both men and women equally Many people think fertility is only a woman's issue, but that's not true. When couples have difficulty getting pregnant, about one-third of the time it's due to female factors, one-third is due to male factors, and the rest is either a combination of both or no clear cause can be found. This means both partners play an equal role in fertility.

2. One in six people worldwide experience infertility If you're having trouble getting pregnant, you're not alone. Recent studies show that approximately one in six people of reproductive age experience infertility at some point in their lifetime. This is more common than many people realize, and it's nothing to be ashamed of.

3. Many causes of infertility can be prevented While some fertility issues are beyond our control, many can be prevented. Treating sexually transmitted infections (STIs) promptly, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, and getting proper medical care after childbirth can all help protect your fertility.

What Do Patients Need to Know About This Topic?

Understanding when to seek help: If you've been trying to get pregnant for one year without success (or six months if you're over 35 years old), it's time to talk to a healthcare provider. Don't wait too long, as early evaluation and treatment often lead to better outcomes.

Know what affects your fertility: Several factors can impact your ability to get pregnant. In women, these include blocked fallopian tubes (often from untreated STIs), conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids in the uterus, endometriosis, and hormonal imbalances. Your age also matters - fertility naturally decreases as you get older, especially after age 35.

Lifestyle matters: Your daily habits can significantly affect your fertility. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutritious foods, avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol, and managing stress are all important. Being either very underweight or overweight can make it harder to conceive.

Both primary and secondary infertility are real: Primary infertility means you've never been able to achieve pregnancy. Secondary infertility means you've had at least one pregnancy before but are now having difficulty. Both types deserve attention and care.

Treatment options exist: If you're diagnosed with infertility, know that many treatment options are available. These can range from medications that help with ovulation to assisted reproductive technologies like IVF (in vitro fertilization). Your doctor can explain which options might work best for your situation.

Protect yourself from infections: Untreated STIs are a major cause of infertility, particularly in our region. Use protection during sex, get tested regularly, and seek treatment immediately if you think you might have an infection. Also, ensure you receive proper medical care after childbirth or abortion to prevent infections that could damage your reproductive system.

If I Could Share One Thing About Fertility With All the People of Nigeria

Your fertility is your right, and protecting it starts with information and action.

Every woman and man has the right to reproductive health and the ability to decide when and how many children to have. Don't let stigma, shame, or misinformation prevent you from seeking the care you need. If you're experiencing fertility challenges, speak up and seek help from qualified healthcare providers.

Remember that infertility is a medical condition, not a personal failing or a curse. It affects millions of people worldwide, and in many cases, it can be treated successfully. Take care of your reproductive health by preventing infections, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical attention when needed. Whether you're just starting your family planning journey or facing challenges along the way, you deserve access to accurate information and quality healthcare that respects your dignity and your dreams.