Infertility affects up to one in five South African couples
Research showed that up to 20 percent of South African couples may suffer from infertility — ranked by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the fifth highest serious global disability.
The Infertility Awareness Association of South Africa advised that couples see a fertility specialist if they are under 35 and have been trying to fall pregnant for over a year, or are over 35 and been trying for six months, iol.co.za wrote.
Dr. Frances Paterson, urogynecologist at The Urology Hospital Pretoria, explained that not all couples who experience fertility problems are infertile, adding that treatment may help.
She said in about 80 percent of couples, the cause of infertility is either an ovulation problem, blockage of the fallopian tubes, or a sperm problem.
“Couples struggling to fall pregnant should consult an obstetrician, gynecologist, urologist, urogynecologist or they should contact The Urology Hospital.”
“A consultation may involve discussing your general health, medication and a physical exam. For men, we may conduct a sperm analysis and for women, testing may include a physical examination, blood tests, an ultrasound and x-rays,” she added.