Infertility is more common than many realize, impacting one in six individuals, yet it is often a topic that remains misunderstood, ignored, or underaddressed. As an infertility nurse practitioner, I see firsthand the emotional and physical challenges that individuals and couples face when struggling to conceive. I also encounter the misconceptions, knowledge gaps, and moments of hope that patients experience when their concerns are identified and properly addressed.
Bringing awareness to this condition and setting realistic expectations for outcomes can provide individuals with greater clarity in their understanding and decision-making when it comes to determining their family-building options.
There are many ways to raise fertility awareness, as each of us has been—or will likely be—personally impacted through someone we know. First, infertility is a medical condition, and it often affects females and males equally. Many individuals may take personal blame, but this should not be the case. As with any condition, multiple factors can contribute to the diagnosis, and treatments are available for practically every disorder that may be identified during an infertility evaluation. Female factors such as age, genetic disorders, endometriosis, irregular ovulation, uterine fibroids, or other conditions can directly impact treatment success. Many of these conditions are identified during an initial consultation and may have previously gone undiagnosed. Male factors may include endocrine or hormonal changes, as well as genetic or physical disorders, which can also significantly impact success. Often, a combination of both female and male factors requires attention to improve outcomes.
Secondly, delaying consultation or treatment often has a direct impact on outcomes. Even if an individual is not actively trying to conceive, developing a plan for future fertility may be recommended. Just as good financial planning or setting professional goals offers peace of mind and stability, having reproductive options in place also provides reassurance—even for those not ready to start a family now, but considering it in the future.
Third, with the exponential growth of social media such as Instagram and TikTok, nearly everyone has advice available at the swipe of a finger. I recommend caution when substituting an internet recommendation for a professional evaluation tailored specifically to your needs.
While access to care has limitations and can impact treatment decisions, individuals who turn solely to the internet may not receive information pertinent to their unique circumstances. For those who advocate awareness of infertility and share their journeys online, I commend their transparency. Their personal stories can be incredibly supportive and informative; however, each person’s journey is unique, and there is no single approach for treatment, and plans must be tailored to each individual.
For most individuals seeking a fertility evaluation, an initial consultation is the perfect opportunity to gather specific information and then “put the puzzle pieces together”—determining what information is missing and what deserves focused attention. Maybe it’s preserving fertility options before undergoing surgery or medical treatments (e.g., chemotherapy), or electively preserving and postponing reproductive potential for the future. The advent of egg and sperm cryopreservation with long-term storage provides a viable choice for future childbearing in certain circumstances. Or perhaps someone needs to consider the use of donor gametes for reproductive success—these options are now more accessible than ever.
For others, raising awareness means focusing on the factors we can control and developing strategies to manage those we cannot. While maternal age is directly related to childbearing success (an undeniable truth beyond our control), other variables can be influenced and should not be minimized. Healthy lifestyle habits for both female and male partners are essential and cannot be overstated. Avoiding extremes in alcohol, tobacco, exercise, or even vitamin and supplement use may significantly impact fertility. Maintaining a balanced diet—particularly one based on the Mediterranean style—limiting processed foods, incorporating moderate exercise, improving our stress response, and acknowledging the importance of sleep habits, significantly contributes to reproductive health.
It is important to note that infertility rates are rising, and treatment options are available. Treatment begins with understanding each person’s unique needs and developing a tailored plan to address those needs. I cannot overstate the value of a strong support system from family, friends, coworkers, church, and a dedicated medical care team. Infertility (and some associated treatments) can be physically, emotionally, mentally, and financially challenging, and having an alliance of support can make all the difference. From conservative approaches to the most advanced assisted reproductive technologies (e.g., in vitro fertilization), options exist and are available for anyone curious to learn more about infertility treatment.
My advice to those who have experienced this journey is to share your story, if you feel comfortable, to help raise awareness and advocate for support to others. And for those facing infertility: seek treatment, educate yourself, become proactive, advocate for your needs, and without further delay, start a conversation with your women’s health provider, your OB/GYN, or a fertility specialist.
Marty B. Gebhart, DNP, NP, is a certified Reproductive Health and Infertility Nurse Practitioner with Mississippi Reproductive Medicine in Flowood and Oxford.
