Infertility is one of the major health issues that have divided many homes across the globe. While it has no single cause, the condition has subjected couples to psychosocial pressure. Some of these pressures have made their conditions more complicated as they (the couples) no longer live happily as a family. The medical condition is no doubt term; it describes a condition whereby a married woman is unable to get pregnant after having unprotected sexual intimacy or a period not less than one year. It can be seen as not being able to conceive after one year of regular and unprotected intercourse. This condition has been topping the list of some marital issues racking havoc in families mostly in developing countries, e.g., Sub-Saharan Africa.
TYPES OF INFERTILITY
The medical condition has two types namely; primary and secondary infertility. Either of these types can affect anyone, not minding the status or level of understanding.
PRIMARY INFERTILITY
Primary infertility occurs when a woman is unable to conceive or bear a child after one year of successful and frequent unprotected sexual intercourse.
SECONDARY INFERTILITY
Secondary infertility is a form of a medical condition whereby a woman is unable to conceive or bear a child after having one or two children in the past.
This implies that while the primary type is not being able to conceive a child, secondary infertility describes not being able to conceive again after having one or two children.
CAUSES OF INFERTILITY
The medical condition can be caused by various factors. However, scientists through research have identified the following factors as the major triggers of infertility;
- Abnormal sperm production
- Abnormal sperm delivery
- Ovulation disorder
- Cervical or Uterine abnormalities
- Damage caused by cancer treatment
- Damage or blockage in fallopian tube
- Early menopause
- Pelvic adhesions
INFERTILITY PREVENTION
A more significant percentage of the causes of the medical condition can be traced to various lifestyle issues. This shows that the causes of infertility can somewhat be prevented.
- Stay away from industrial or environmental toxins
- Avoid too much alcohol
- Avoid tobacco
- Avoid hard drugs
- Avoid long stay in hot tubes (shower)
- Avoid medication that can affect your fertility health
- Stop smoking
- Quit caffeine
- Avoid excessive weight gain
- Have regular exercise
CONCLUSION
Understanding that this medical condition can be prevented is another level of knowledge. Couples should enjoy their marriage especially at the young age with the news of the arrival of newborns in the marriage. No one will be comfortable or satisfied being in a marriage without children. So, intending or young couples are advised to take these prevention tips seriously.