1 in 6 People Worldwide Affected by Infertility
Global Issue
For millions of couples around the world, conceiving a child can be frustrating and difficult. Hopes of starting a family are quashed by one negative pregnancy test after another.
Around one in six people worldwide face infertility at some point in their lives, according to a new report by the World Health Organization (WHO) which shows no continent is better off.
Previous estimates suggest that between 48 million couples and 186 million people live with infertility globally.
Wide-Reaching Repercussions
Struggling to conceive can also have wide-reaching repercussions on the lives of people affected, from anxiety and depression to social stigma and domestic violence.
At any point in time, about 12.6 per cent of the global population struggle with infertility. This share was highest in the WHO African region, at 16.4 per cent, and lowest in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, at 10 per cent.
However, the report highlights that a lack of available data in many countries made it difficult to compare in greater detail the burden of infertility around the world.
It calls for improvements in the way research on infertility is conducted, so future data can be more consistent and easier to compare.
What Causes Infertility?
Infertility may be caused by a number of different factors, in either the male or female reproductive systems, or both. In some cases, the causes of infertility remain unexplained.
The WHO report did not provide a breakdown of male and female infertility. Infertility may be caused by a number of different factors, in either the male or female reproductive systems, or both. In some cases, the causes of infertility remain unexplained.
In the female reproductive system, infertility may be caused by a wide range of factors including sexually transmitted infections, blocked fallopian tubes, uterine disorders such as endometriosis, disorders of the ovaries such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), or imbalances of reproductive hormones.
In the male reproductive system, infertility may be caused by genital infections, hormonal imbalance, or abnormal sperm production and quality.
Environmental and lifestyle factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and obesity are all known to affect fertility, but scientists also suspect exposure to environmental pollutants can disrupt reproductive hormones and damage eggs and sperm.
About Southwest Fertility Center
Infertility treatment specialists at Southwest Fertility Center have been helping patients since 1980. Our team of fertility specialists has established a well-earned reputation for successfully helping couples through fertility issues. When you visit our office, we will take our time to get to know you so that we can provide a set of treatment options that best fit your individual needs. We take great pride in our non-discrimination policies and we accept all patients regardless of their prior medical conditions or sexual orientation. Our staff of medical professionals is dedicated to providing you with the patience and compassion you deserve. For more information regarding our treatment options, financing, or to discuss your individual treatment needs, speak with one of our staff members today. 602-956-7481.