As the New Year 2020 has started and we are coming to January end so, I am sure many people around the country may be thinking about starting their family or still trying to conceive. It's very important to know that everyone's fertility journey is different; some people might conceive in one go and some may take a forever’s time but when planning for the future,there's a number of important fertility facts that everyone should keep in mind.
1. Male fertility is linked to sperm
In about 4 out of 10 couples, a condition which might reduce fertility is found in the male. The most common cause of male infertility is a problem with sperm. Sperm may be low in number or may not be as good at swimming as they should be.
The ideal temperature for sperm is 35ºC, so to maximize sperm count, loose undergarments and cool baths can help. There's lots of evidence to suggest men who work outside have higher sperm counts than those with a desk job.
2. Excessive alcohol consumption and smoking can impact your chance of pregnancy
In women smoking reduces the oxygen supply to a woman's eggs and rots them. Additionally, smoking cuts the blood flow to the uterus and lowers sperm count and its quality. Men and women will see an almost instant boost in fertility if
they quit. It's also advisable to cut down on alcohol consumption, and to drink within the recommended weekly consumption guidelines – for this seek the advice of your fertility specialist
3. Age and fertility goes hand in hand
There is much advancement in the technology for the infertility issues but the age remains the biggest factor when it comes to infertility. In women fertility begins to decline at 30, with a significant drop at 35 and an even more significant drop by the time a woman reaches 40. So, while planning your family you must consider the age factor.
4. Secondary infertility is on the rise
Approximately, 10.5% women have reported to experience secondary infertility. Incidences of secondary infertility are growing rapidly in number. While infertility is a topic discussed everyday, secondary infertility is not much talked about, whereas it is quite a common form of infertility. Secondary infertility is defined as the inability to become pregnant second time, following the birth of one or more biological children.
5. Your mental health is important too
We know, however, that fertility problems and IVF treatment can take a toll on mental health. Feelings of stress and anxiety are normal, and most people going through the process have already had issues conceiving, which will have impacted their mental health. It's important to acknowledge these feelings, understand that it is okay not to feel okay, and to talk to friends, family and/or a mental health professional.
