The Dream of Parenthood: Infertility is Not a ‘Luxury Problem’
Nearly 50 million couples worldwide are affected by infertility and demand for assisted reproductive technologies is expected to rise as treatments become more effective and accessible, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). This growing need highlights that infertility is a significant public health concern, not simply a matter of personal circumstance.
Globally, birth rates are declining. In 1950, women averaged 4.97 children, but by 2019, that number had fallen to 2.31. A 2020 Lancet projection estimates that women will average 1.66 children globally by 2100, a trend influenced by increased access to education and contraception.
This decline is also evident in Sweden, where the average number of children per woman decreased from 2.2 in 1950 to 1.7 in 2020, according to data from the FN-förbundet’s Globalis website.
Alongside decreasing birth rates, women are also having children later in life. The average age of first-time mothers in Sweden rose from 24.1 in 1975 to 29.9 in 2020. In Danderyd, Sweden, the average age of first-time mothers was 32.7 in 2020.
Increasing age is a primary factor in infertility, particularly for women, but also for men. This age-related decline in fertility is now the most common cause of involuntary childlessness in developed countries. Understanding these trends is crucial for developing effective reproductive health strategies and support systems.
Research into the causes and treatments of infertility continues, offering hope to those struggling to conceive. Further information about infertility can be found at Karolinska Institutet Nyheter.
The experience of living with infertility can significantly impact a woman’s physical and mental health, leading to considerable suffering. A study from Linnaeus University found that one in ten couples in Sweden experience infertility, and a fertility evaluation can begin after 12 months of unprotected intercourse without conception. More information on this topic can be found here.
A study conducted at Lund University explored the experiences of both women and men facing infertility, finding that it is a stressful situation for both partners. Participants described feelings of helplessness, panic, and hope. Supportive care from healthcare professionals and friends was identified as important factors in coping with infertility. The study, available here, emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in providing care to those experiencing infertility.
