For many couples dreaming of a family, the path to parenthood isn't always straightforward. While conversations around female reproductive health are gaining traction, male infertility remains shrouded in silence and misunderstanding.
Male infertility encompasses a spectrum of conditions that can impact a man's ability to conceive. Shockingly, research reveals that men contribute to infertility in a significant portion of cases, 40 per cent to be exact. An equal percentage is attributed to female factors, while the remaining 20 per cent involve challenges in both partners.
This highlights the crucial need to shed light on male infertility, dismantle the stigma surrounding it, and explore the available solutions. One such beacon of hope is In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), a revolutionary technology that has opened doors to fatherhood for countless men.
When we spoke to Dr Shreya Gupta, Consultant, Birla Fertility & IVF, Lucknow, about IVF treatment, she said, "IVF offers a powerful tool in the fight against infertility, empowering couples to overcome biological hurdles and embrace the joys of parenthood. By fostering open dialogues and increasing awareness, we can create a more supportive and informed environment for men facing infertility."
Understanding male infertility
Male infertility is a condition where a man cannot contribute to conception after a year or more of regular, unprotected intercourse. It can be caused by sperm production issues, anatomical problems, hormonal imbalances, or lifestyle influences. Common causes include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal morphology, azoospermia, hormonal imbalances, genetic conditions, anatomical problems like varicocele, blockages, and undescended testicles. Lifestyle and environmental factors like substance use, exposure to toxins, heat exposure, chronic illnesses, infections, certain medications, and prior surgeries involving the groin area are major factors too.
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is a medical process in which sperm fertilise an egg outside of the body, usually in a dish used for lab work. To develop embryos, this procedure entails stimulating a woman's ovaries to produce numerous eggs, extracting them, and mixing them with sperm. The goal of transferring the resultant embryos into the woman's uterus is to conceive a healthy child.
With advancements in the fertility sector and techniques like IVF, it has become possible for men facing fertility-related issues to fulfil their desire to have a child. Conditions such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or genetic disorders can hinder natural conception. In such cases, IVF provides a solution by allowing for the selection and use of the healthiest sperm.
The emotional journey of IVF
The process of IVF can be emotionally challenging. When seeking infertility treatment due to male infertility, many men struggle with feelings of guilt or inadequacy. This can make it difficult for them to endure the process.
Nonetheless, the strengthening relationship between partners frequently lessens these difficulties. Relationships can be strengthened by the common experience of pursuing children, which can greatly promote cooperation and support among individuals.
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