World Infertility Awareness Month

Infertility affects millions of people worldwide, touching the lives of countless couples who dream of starting or growing their families. Despite its prevalence, infertility remains a sensitive and often misunderstood topic. World Infertility Awareness Month, held every June, aims to break the stigma surrounding fertility issues, foster open discussions, and provide valuable information to those affected.

This guide explores the significance of World Infertility Awareness Month, common causes of infertility in men and women, treatment options, and factors that impact fertility.

Key Takeaways

Infertility is Common but Manageable:

Infertility affects millions, including 3.5 million people in the UK. World Infertility Awareness Month highlights support, treatments like IVF and IUI, and lifestyle tips to improve fertility.

Healthy Choices Boost Fertility:

Simple steps like eating well, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing stress, and avoiding smoking or alcohol can make it easier to conceive.

Talk About Infertility:

Open conversations during World Infertility Awareness Month help break the stigma, offering support and hope to couples facing fertility challenges. No one has to go through it alone.

What Is World Infertility Awareness Month?

World Infertility Awareness Month is an annual initiative dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of infertility. It serves as a platform for education and support for those affected by fertility challenges. With approximately 3.5 million people in the UK experiencing infertility, this awareness campaign highlights the need for compassion and practical solutions for couples facing this journey.

Key Objectives

• Promote open conversations about infertility to reduce stigma.

• Provide educational resources about causes, treatments, and lifestyle factors affecting fertility.

• Advocate for better access to fertility treatments.

Understanding Infertility

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. It affects both men and women equally and can stem from a variety of causes.

Infertility in Women

One of the leading causes of female infertility is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This condition affects how the ovaries function, often preventing the release of eggs. Other causes of female infertility include:

• Endometriosis

• Blocked fallopian tubes

• Hormonal imbalances

Infertility in Men

Male infertility is often linked to issues with sperm count or sperm quality. A low sperm count (fewer than 15 million sperm per millilitre) makes conception more challenging. Common causes of male infertility include:

• Hormonal imbalances

• Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)

• Lifestyle factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption

Fertility Treatments

For couples struggling to conceive naturally, various fertility treatments are available. Two of the most common methods include IVF and IUI.

What Is IVF?

In vitro fertilisation (IVF) involves retrieving an egg from the woman and fertilising it with sperm in a laboratory. The resulting embryo is then implanted into the woman’s womb. Success rates vary based on age:

• 32% for women under 35

• 11% for women aged 40-42

• 4% for women over 44

What Is IUI?

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) involves placing sperm directly into the womb during ovulation. Factors affecting IUI success include:

• Age of the woman

• Sperm quality (fresh sperm tends to be more effective than frozen)

• Use of fertility medications to stimulate ovulation

Factors Affecting Fertility

Fertility is influenced by a variety of lifestyle and environmental factors. Understanding these can help individuals optimise their chances of conception.

1. Diet and Weight

• Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for fertility. Being overweight or underweight can disrupt ovulation and sperm production.

• A balanced diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables supports healthy hormone levels and fertility.

2. Exercise

• Regular exercise promotes overall health and hormonal balance, improving fertility. However, excessive exercise may negatively impact ovulation and sperm quality.

3. Smoking and Alcohol

• Smoking damages eggs and sperm, reducing fertility in both men and women.

• Alcohol disrupts hormonal balance, making it harder to conceive. It’s recommended to avoid alcohol entirely when trying to conceive.

4. Stress

• Chronic stress can disrupt ovulation and sperm production. Managing stress through mindfulness, therapy, or relaxation techniques can enhance fertility.

Fertility Awareness in the UK

UK Fertility Rate

According to the Office of National Statistics, the UK’s fertility rate in 2021 was 1.61 children per woman, slightly up from 1.58 in 2020. This modest increase followed a decade of decline, likely influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fertility Treatment Waiting Times

Access to fertility treatments varies widely across the UK. The average waiting time for treatment after a GP referral is 40 weeks, but some cities face much longer delays. For example:

• Northampton has the shortest average waiting time (21 weeks).

• Leicester has the longest average waiting time (73 weeks).

How to Boost Fertility

Optimise Your Fertile Window

The fertile window typically spans five days before ovulation. To maximise the chances of conception:

• Have regular unprotected sex during these days.

• Use ovulation tracking methods or apps to identify peak fertility.

Consider Supplements

Supplements like folic acid, vitamin D, and those designed for ovulation support (e.g., Babystart’s Fertilova) can enhance fertility.

Address Underlying Health Issues

• Treat ovulation disorders like PCOS with appropriate medications or lifestyle changes.

• Consult a doctor if you suspect underlying medical conditions affecting fertility.

Breaking the Stigma

One of the main goals of World Infertility Awareness Month is to encourage open discussions about infertility. Breaking the stigma allows individuals and couples to seek the support and treatment they need without fear of judgment. Whether through support groups, counselling, or awareness campaigns, the month serves as a reminder that no one has to face infertility alone.

Final Thoughts

World Infertility Awareness Month shines a light on a deeply personal and often misunderstood issue. By raising awareness, supporting those affected, and providing education on fertility challenges and treatments, this campaign empowers people to take control of their reproductive health.

Sources

• June: Month of Fertility Awareness - IVI UK

• Infertility Awareness Month - Undefining Motherhood

• Infertility Treatment - NHS

• IVF - NHS

• Artificial Insemination - NHS