Understanding India's falling fertility: FAQs answered by health expert

In a world where fertility is often taken for granted the harsh reality of infertility can be a challenging pill to swallow Seeking to demystify the complex web of factors contributing to infertility in young males and females we turn to the expertise of Dr Monica Jani a distinguished gynaecologist and obstetrician at Bhailal Amin General Hospital Heres what she had to sayWhat are the primary factors that can contribute to infertility in men and womenPrimary factors contributing to infertility in both men and women include cervical tubal uterine and ovarian issues in women and pretesticular testicular and posttesticular factors in men Both sexes can be affected by lifestyle factors such as diet obesity smoking alcoholism and exposure to chemicals Genetics also play a role with inherited disorders or chromosomal abnormalities potentially impacting fertility Advanced age and stress are additional factors affecting fertilityAlso Read Indias fertility rate down from 62 to under 2 since 1950 will fall to 13 in 2050 StudyWhat is the average dip in fertility rate among young adultsThe average dip in fertility rate among young adults is influenced by various factors but its essential to note that infertility affects about 10 to 15 per cent of couples While specific statistics regarding the average dip in fertility rate among young adults may vary lifestyle choices environmental factors and delayed childbearing contribute to this declineHow diet lifestyle and environmental factors influence fertility rateDiet lifestyle and environmental factors significantly influence fertility rates Obesity can lead to anovulation in women and decrease sperm quality in men Compulsive exercise can similarly affect ovulation in women and sperm count in men Smoking alcoholism exposure to chemicals and drug usage impact fertility in both partners These factors underscore the importance of a healthy lifestyle and minimizing exposure to harmful substances for optimal fertilityAlso Read Indias fertility rate plummets doctors seek solutionsDo genetics play a role in fertility both in terms of male and femaleYes genetics play a role in fertility for both men and women Inherited disorders chromosomal abnormalities and mutations can impact reproductive health These genetic factors may affect various aspects of fertility including hormone regulation gamete production and embryo development highlighting the importance of genetic screening and counselling in fertility assessment and treatmentHow common are issues with sperm quality among menIssues with sperm quality are relatively common among men with various factors contributing to decreased sperm quality These factors include testicular factors like testicular failure trauma and varicocele as well as lifestyle factors such as smoking alcoholism and exposure to environmental toxins Additionally genetic factors and advanced age can also affect sperm quality However advancements in fertility treatments offer options for addressing issues with sperm quality and improving the chances of conceptionAlso Read HK Singapore food regulators red flag lsquocancercausingrsquo ingredient in certain MDH Everest spices