reproduction / INNOVATION
FERTILITY IN SA ON THE DECLINE
The average fertility rate in SA is on the decline. Couples unable to conceive after a year of trying should seek help from a specialist There are often no obvious symptoms of infertility
rates in SA for 2020 are projected at an
although some women may have irregular or absent
average 2.3 children per woman, slightly
menstrual periods. Men may display hormonal signs
lower than the global average of about 2.5.
such as changes in hair growth or sexual function.
“Global fertility is projected to decline to 2.4 children per
Some causes of infertility in women may include
woman by 2030 and 2.2 children per woman by 2050,”
ovulation disorders, uterine or cervical abnormalities,
the report said.
fallopian tube damage or blockage, endometriosis, early
Urogynaecologist, Dr Frances Paterson from The Urology Hospital, Pretoria, said research shows that up to 20% of South African couples struggle with infertility affecting both males and females almost equally. The World Health Organisation describes infertility
menopause, pelvic adhesions, and certain cancers and their treatment such as radiation and chemotherapy. Causes in men may include increasing age, obesity, smoking, using addictive substances, radiation, nutrition, taking supplements and steroids, a high
as a “disease of the reproductive system, defined by the
testicular temperature, infections and STIs, genital
failure to achieve a clinical pregnancy after 12 months or
injuries, and varicocoele (enlargement of veins in
more of regular, unprotected intercourse”.
the scrotal sack). “Infertility may often be successfully treated
urogynaecologist if they’re unable to conceive after
and couples struggling to fall pregnant should
having regular unprotected sex for a year, or if a woman
consult an obstetrician, gynaecologist, urologist,
is unable to carry a baby to full term.
or urogynaecologist,” said Dr Paterson.
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Up to 20% of South African couples struggle with infertility affecting both males and females almost equally
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Dr Paterson advised couples to consult a
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recent United Nations report found fertility
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Causes of infertility in men may include increasing age, obesity, smoking, using addictive substances, radiation, nutrition, and taking supplements and steroids
Pharmacy Magazine MARCH 2020 |
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