International Day of In vitro Fertilization Celebration: UAE specialists are redefining discussions around fertility and reproductive health
In the realm of reproductive health, it's essential to discuss fertility throughout adulthood, not just when trying to conceive. This proactive approach can significantly impact one's chances of starting a family, as lifestyle choices play a crucial role in maintaining fertility.
Research has shown that lifestyle medicine, which focuses on nutrition, movement, sleep, connection, and managing substance abuse, can boost ovulation and fertility. Making lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption, can be key to improving fertility prospects.
Cost is a significant factor to consider, as fertility treatments can be expensive, and many insurance policies in the UAE may not cover these procedures. However, the UAE has become a medical hub for fertility tourism, offering a variety of treatments such as IVF, IUI, egg or sperm freezing, and genetic screening.
Infertility, defined by the WHO as "a disease of the male or female reproductive system defined by the failure to achieve a pregnancy after 12 months or more," affects 17.5% of people worldwide, according to a 2023 World Health Organisation report. This statistic underscores the importance of open discussions about fertility health.
Rapid advancements in fertility treatments are taking place, including the use of gene sequencing, new sperm selection techniques, and novel treatments like ovarian rejuvenation and time-lapse imaging of embryos. These advancements offer hope for those struggling with infertility.
One common cause of infertility is PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), which affects up to one in four women in the Mena region. Despite the condition's impact on ovulation, women with PCOS can still have children.
Stress, lifestyle, and delaying marriage have contributed to declining fertility rates. To address this, primary care providers need to work with mental health professionals and lifestyle medicine physicians to provide patients with a seamless care pathway.
The most important part of the decision to preserve eggs is empowerment, ensuring people make informed choices about their future. Tracking symptoms, cycles, food, and movement can provide doctors with objective data to personalize treatment.
IVF treatment can be in response to various infertility factors, such as tubal factor infertility, diminished ovarian reserve, and male fertility issues. Fertilized eggs or embryos can be the biological children of both parents or result from egg and/or sperm donations.
Effective strategies for medical professionals discussing lifestyle, fertility, and egg freezing topics without causing anxiety or seeming judgmental include approaching conversations with empathy and active listening, using straightforward, respectful, and non-judgmental language, creating a safe, supportive environment, avoiding personalizing patient choices, normalizing the conversation, being mindful of nonverbal cues, engaging in self-reflection, and recognizing personal biases.
Together, these strategies promote an atmosphere where patients feel heard and respected, reducing anxiety around sensitive lifestyle or fertility issues and enabling more productive, supportive healthcare conversations.
- Oman, navigating its way in the Gulf region, is keeping a close eye on the developments in fertility education.
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