MUSCAT Feb 6 - While infertility among both men and women are on the rise globally, the figures for Oman are quite alarming, say experts. According to statistics, fertility has declined from 8.6 births per woman in 1988 to 3.3 births per woman in 2008, a 62-per cent decline in 20 years. Infertility problem has been attributed to increased focus on career and late marriages, leading to delayed pregnancies. Adding to it is the sedentary lifestyle, obesity and consumption of tobacco. “Infertility among both males and females in the region is on the rise and Oman is not far behind in terms of delayed pregnancies and impotence,” said Michael H Fakih, Consultant, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, on the sidelines of the opening of Fakih Infertility Center in Muscat, the fourth in the region.
The centre also has a sperm and embryo bank. Dr Fakih, also a professor at Michigan University, said although it is the women who mostly seek infertility treatment, the cases among men too are increasing. “As more men are coming forward to seek treatment, it’s a good sign and an indication that people are more cautious,” he said. Another problem is polycystic ovaries (PCO), a result of obesity which interferes with ovulation in the later stages. “If a woman is unable to conceive in less than a year after marriage, it is a case of infertility,” says Wafa el Ali, Deputy CEO at the infertility centre.
She said the increasing number of PCOs among young women is of concern as children are less inclined towards playing outdoors. “Engaging in outdoor sporting activities can help them gain complete physical as well as mental health,” she said. Experts further said the symptoms for PCO are obesity, abnormal hair growth and irregular menstrual cycle.
KABEER YOUSUF
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