A Story of Misconceptions about Fertility

Adekunle: (Obviously dissatisfied with the line of conversation) Michael, please stop. (A little crease forms just above his eyebrows). How can you say that about your brother’s wife? Who says infertility is a consequence of promiscuity?

Michael: Well… (Stuttering, surprised by Adekunle’s sudden outburst) we’ve all heard people say it. They can’t all be wrong, can they?

Adekunle: Yes, they can, and they are wrong. There’s no scientific connection between promiscuity and having trouble conceiving. Plus, who says the challenge your brother and his wife are facing with conception has anything to do with his wife?

Esther: (Rolling her eyes)?Infertility is a woman’s problem. Women are the ones with the womb (Shrugging her shoulders).?If the couple are having a challenge with conceiving, then the woman should be made to answer. After all, …

Adekunle: (Visibly taken aback; Interrupts) Esther! And you are educated! You are also a woman. I expect you to know better. (Sadly) I am currently grappling with infertility.

Esther and Michael: (Shocked) What?!

Esther: But you’ve been married for only 10 months; I thought you guys were not ready for kids yet!

Adekunle: We’ve been ready since day one. I have been diagnosed with low sperm production. Honestly, this has been a struggle for my wife and me, and she’s been so supportive. It kills me to know that people like you- friends, family, and strangers judge her for my problem.

Esther: (Putting her arms around Adekunle). We are so sorry. We didn’t… couldn’t have known. (Broken) Thanks for opening up, Kunle. ?I'm grateful for this conversation. It's made me realize the importance of empathy and understanding, and the need to be more mindful of the challenges others may be facing, even if they're not immediately visible.

Adekunle: (Softens) It's okay, there are many misconceptions about infertility. Many people also don't understand the complexities, until they experience it themselves or see someone close to them go through it.

Michael: (Reflective and remorseful; places a warm hand on Adekunle’s shoulder). I am sorry too, Kunle. I agree with Esther. Infertility is beyond a personal struggle; it's a societal issue that requires awareness and empathy. We need to break the stigma surrounding infertility and support those who are affected by it.

(They share a group hug, united in their commitment to leave their mark by raising awareness and supporting those affected by infertility.)

As we commemorate Infertility Awareness Week, it's crucial to raise awareness about the complexities and challenges faced by millions of individuals and couples worldwide. Infertility is not just a personal struggle; it's a societal issue that requires understanding, empathy, and support.

Did you know that infertility affects approximately one in every six people of reproductive age globally? Contrary to common misconceptions, infertility is not solely a female issue. In fact, there's an equal chance that the issue may arise from either the male or female partner.

CAUSES

Factors contributing to infertility in females include delayed ovulation, irregular menstrual cycles, reproductive system surgeries, and abnormalities of the ovaries, uterus, or fallopian tubes. Similarly, males may experience issues such as problems in semen ejection, low sperm levels, abnormal sperm morphology, and impaired sperm motility. While there are various causes of infertility, including genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle choices, it's essential to recognize that infertility is a medical condition that requires understanding and support.

MYTHS

Additionally, there are several misconceptions about infertility. These beliefs are untrue. Some of such myths are:

1. Age doesn’t affect fertility. On the contrary, old age is one of the predisposing factors to infertility, as opposed to people’s belief that you can get pregnant at any time in your life as long as you’re having sex.

2. Birth control leads to infertility.

3. Fertility is solely a woman’s problem.

4. IVF and other infertility treatments are too expensive.

5. Infertility means you can’t have a baby.

6. Infertility is never preventable.

7. Another prevalent misconception surrounding infertility is the harmful belief that it is caused by promiscuity. This erroneous assumption not only adds to the stigma surrounding infertility but also inflicts additional emotional pain on those already grappling with the challenges of infertility.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Preventing infertility involves a combination of lifestyle choices, medical interventions, and awareness. Here are some preventive measures recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO):

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight. Both obesity and being underweight can affect fertility. Aim for a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise.

2. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol. Smoking and moderating alcohol intake can improve fertility.

3. Practice Safe Sex. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to infertility if left untreated. Use condoms and practice safe sex to reduce the risk of STIs.

4. Manage Stress. Stress can interfere with hormonal balance and fertility. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga.

5. Limit Exposure to Environmental Toxins. Pollutants, chemicals, and pesticides can impact fertility.

6. Maintain Sexual Health. Regular sexual intercourse and timing intercourse with ovulation can increase the chances of pregnancy.

7. Get Regular Health Check-ups in order to detect any underlying health conditions that may affect fertility early on.

8. Manage Chronic Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and thyroid disorders can affect fertility.

9. Limit Exposure to Harmful Substances such as lead, mercury, and certain chemicals found in pesticides and plastics, as they can affect reproductive health.

10. Seek Fertility Evaluation if Needed. If you've been trying to conceive for a year without success (or six months if you're over 35), seek evaluation from a fertility specialist. Early intervention can increase the chances of successful treatment.

Remember, while these preventive measures can help reduce the risk of infertility, individual factors such as genetics and age also play a significant role. Consulting with a healthcare provider for personalized advice is essential.