Infertility impacts millions across the globe, touching both men and women alike. According to the World Health Organization, around 17.5% of the global population, roughly one in six people, experience fertility challenges. This condition can significantly reduce or even prevent natural conception. Yet, despite its prevalence, infertility remains clouded by myths and misconceptions, many of which unfairly place the blame solely on women. Seeking to debunk these long-held beliefs, Dr. Holly Miller, an American Board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, took to Instagram to share three important truths every woman should know about fertility. 3 Truths About Fertility Women Should Know With the help of modern medicine and medical interventions like IVF, fertility treatment can help people boost their chances of reproducing. Infertility Isn't Just a Woman's Issue It’s important to understand that infertility affects both partners — it’s not solely a woman’s issue. Blaming only the woman is both unfair and inaccurate. In fact, experts find that the causes of infertility are almost evenly split between men and women.Roughly one-third of infertility cases are linked to the woman, another third to the man, and the remaining third result from issues affecting both partners — or from causes that doctors are unable to clearly identify. To identify the cause of infertility, both partners should undergo testing simultaneously. For men, a semen analysis — a quick and straightforward test — is often the easiest and most informative first step. The "Wait One Year" Rule Changes with AgeMost couples automatically try to conceive for a full 12 months before they think about seeing a fertility doctor. However, the doctor emphasizes that the woman's age is the single most important factor that affects the chances of successful treatment.If you are under 35 years old: You can safely try for a full 12 months of regular, unprotected sex before seeking a specialist.If you are 35 or older: You should contact a specialist after only 6 months of trying without success.If you are 40 or older: You need to see a specialist right away—as quickly as you possibly can. The doctor explains that after age 35, the woman's egg supply starts to decline more quickly. Time is essential, so couples should strongly ask their doctors for an early referral. "Unexplained Infertility" Often Means "Undiagnosed Problem" When a couple is diagnosed with "unexplained infertility," which happens in about 10% to 20% of cases, it means the basic first tests did not find a clear reason. This can be upsetting, but it does not mean you can never have children. In the doctor's experience, the term "unexplained" often means there are hidden problems, such as: Small issues with the male partner's sperm that were missed by the basic tests.A hidden condition called Endometriosis, which can only be confirmed by a surgical procedure.Not having sexual intercourse at the best time or not often enough.
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