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Fertility: Fertility refers to the natural ability of an individual or a couple to conceive a child through sexual intercourse. It is a complex interplay of various factors, including hormonal balance, ovulation (the release of an egg from a woman's ovary), healthy sperm production, and a receptive uterine environment. Fertility is influenced by genetics, age, lifestyle choices, and overall health. Generally, individuals are most fertile in their late teens to early 30s.
Factors Affecting Fertility:
- Age: Fertility declines as individuals age, with a more significant drop typically occurring after the age of 35 for women. This is due to a decrease in the quantity and quality of eggs in the ovaries.
- Lifestyle: Factors such as diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, and stress can impact fertility. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can positively influence reproductive health.
- Medical Conditions: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and sexually transmitted infections can affect fertility. Managing these conditions with medical guidance is crucial.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Proper hormone levels are essential for ovulation and sperm production. Imbalances can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and reduced sperm count.
- Weight: Both obesity and being underweight can disrupt hormonal balance and impact fertility.
Infertility: Infertility is diagnosed when a couple is unable to conceive after actively trying for a year (or six months for women over 35) without using birth control. It's important to note that infertility is not solely a female issue; both partners contribute to the possibility of conception. Infertility can be categorized as primary (never having conceived) or secondary (difficulty conceiving after a previous successful pregnancy).
