The problem of infertility in women is one of the important topics discussed in our society today, both from a medical and psychological perspective. Various hormonal disorders, problems in reproductive organs, and lifestyle factors can reduce a woman's ability to conceive. As in international practice, this problem is also encountered in our country.
The Modern.az website has interviewed surgeon obstetrician-gynecologist Fəxrəndə Rəsulova regarding the problem of infertility in women.
- In recent years, the diagnosis of "infertility" has been heard more frequently. In your opinion, what is the main reason for this increase? Is it due to the refinement of diagnoses with the development of medicine, or genuinely a decline in women's reproductive health?
- To be honest, both factors play a role here. On the one hand, with the development of medicine, especially laboratory and diagnostic capabilities, it is now possible to detect problems earlier and more accurately. Cases previously classified as "unexplained infertility" are now explained with specific diagnoses. On the other hand, unfortunately, a decline in women's reproductive health is also observed. The increase in sexually transmitted infections, hormonal dysfunctions, and changes in lifestyle play a significant role in this increase. Sometimes couples do not undergo the necessary examinations before marriage, which subsequently leads to serious problems.
- Which medical or lifestyle factors most commonly hinder women from giving birth?
- In fact, both medical and social factors are intertwined in this issue. One of the most important factors is the financial and social situation of families. Factors such as intense work schedules, constant stress, unhealthy diet, smoking and alcohol consumption, late sleeping, and low physical activity significantly affect a woman's hormonal balance. Medical causes such as hormonal dysfunction, decreased ovarian reserve, endometriosis, and fallopian tube obstruction are also widespread. All of these together can lead to infertility. A healthy lifestyle and timely examinations, however, can reduce most of these risks.
- Sometimes women undergo treatment for years, but no results are achieved. In such cases, where does the main responsibility lie - with the patient herself, or with the doctor's approach?
- Frankly, it is difficult to give a definitive answer to this question, as there are problems stemming from both sides. Sometimes, a correct diagnosis is not made by the doctor, the cause is sought elsewhere entirely, or a treatment plan is not established with the necessary sequence. In other cases, patients discontinue treatment due to financial or time constraints, or they do not adhere to the given recommendations. Patience, consistency, and a correct approach are very important in infertility treatment.
- There are still many taboos and misconceptions in society regarding infertility. In your opinion, how do these stereotypes affect women's timely access to treatment?
- Unfortunately, such an approach still persists in some families today. Even if a daughter experiences menstrual disorders, hormonal problems, or other gynecological symptoms, she is not taken to a doctor due to the fear of "what people will say." This subsequently leads to serious reproductive problems after marriage. In our society, infertility is still associated only with women, but in reality, it is a problem that concerns both partners. Educational efforts and proper information are very important to break such stereotypes.
- With the development of technology, the method of artificial insemination is also becoming increasingly widespread in our country. How do you evaluate this method? How does the situation in our country compare to international practice?
- Artificial insemination is one of the most important achievements of modern medicine and the only hope for many families. There are significant advancements in this field in our country as well, with experienced specialists, modern laboratories, and new technologies being applied. However, we must admit that sometimes this field is misused purely for financial gain. In some cases, patients are directed to artificial insemination without a full examination and without undergoing the necessary preparatory stages. This leads to both unsuccessful outcomes and financial and psychological losses for families. The correct approach is for the couple to first undergo a comprehensive examination, for the cause to be determined, and only then for the decision on artificial insemination to be made.
- Finally, what advice would you give to women suffering from infertility?
- If you have been married for almost two years and pregnancy is not occurring, you must consult a doctor. Both partners should undergo examination together and support each other. Most importantly, it is to correctly identify the cause and consistently carry out the treatment. After full treatment, I would recommend pregnancy planning. Let's not forget that an infertility diagnosis does not mean hopelessness - it simply means identifying the cause and taking steps in the right direction. With today's medical capabilities, successful outcomes are possible in many such cases.
