Today, one in ten couples is facing fertility issues. These issues relate equally to both men women.

Has it become a new problem with youth? Is infertility curable?

Does the use of contraceptives affect the ability to have children?

We have brought to you the answers to these questions and more via this insightful interview with the famous infertility specialist Dr. Shivani Bhutani from Eva hospital Ludhiana.

Here are some excerpts from the interview to know the valuable knowledge he imparted.

Is infertility is on the rise in India? Is it curable?

Dr. Shivani Bhutani: 

There has been about a 30% increase in infertility cases in India in the last 5 years. Infertility problems are not limited to just women or the city people. 

Village men and women are also facing issues. Problems related to sperm count and qualities in men are difficult for people to understand. That’s why they relate infertility with women. 

As for the causes of the increase in problems in conceiving a baby, it is due to many factors related to lifestyle, stress, obesity, unhealthy eating habits, environmental pollution as well as a medical condition like diabetes (which is also on the rise in today’s population).

Almost all causes of infertility can be corrected with the help of assisted reproductive technology. There are medicines, IUI, surgery, and Assisted Reproductive Technology or ART. 

In-vitro-fertilization or IVF is the main type of ART. At Eva Infertility clinic we have given the joy of parenthood to many many childless couples. 

How does one know when to consult an infertility specialist?

Dr. Shivani Bhutani: 

See, when a couple starts trying for a pregnancy, it takes a natural course. The woman conceives a child when she is ovulating. It is the days in the centre of the menstrual cycle. 

If the female has normal and regular periods, fertilization and pregnancy occur. But if it does not happen even after ‘trying’ for 9 months, it is time to see a fertility specialist. 

On the other hand, if the female doesn’t have regular periods from the beginning, then she should consult the specialist even before. 

Most problems can be readily solved with treatment at an infertility clinic. 

We hear so much about PCOS. What is PCOS and does it affect fertility in women?

Dr. Shivani Bhutani: 

PCOS is a condition in women where the eggs are not released into the uterus due to hormonal imbalance. When the woman does not ovulate on time and provide healthy eggs, getting pregnant. 

It affects the fertility of the woman and treatment is required. It is completely curable. Most women do not realize they have PCOS and hence delay the treatment. 

The most common indication is the irregularity of the menstrual cycle. Any abnormal thing in periods calls for a consultation with your Ob-Gynae – the sooner the better. A chronic PCOS condition can become complicated.

Do you think today’s lifestyle is adversely affecting the ability of youth to become parents?

Dr. Shivani Bhutani: 

Yes, definitely. Lifestyle and habits do have an impact on the fertility of both men as well as women. 

The most common factors are nutrition, weight, physical activity, additions, and psychological effects like stress, anxiety, depression, or a loss of libido. 

In fact, diet also has an effect on your hormones and general well-being, which is important for fertility.

Do birth control methods affect the chances to conceive a baby?

Dr. Shivani Bhutani: 

No, it is a total myth. Surprisingly, people believe that. Especially in Punjab, people think that if you consume pills, it disturbs the hormonal balance and becomes difficult to have a baby. 

Let me assure you, it is not so. Within a few weeks of stopping the pills, conception can occur. 

If some couples face problems, it is not due to pills but due to some other condition that they might be having beforehand that they are not aware of. 

The couple should consult a best gynaecologist in Ludhiana, when they decide on becoming parents.