The fertility conversation has come a long way in the last decade. It’s no longer a hushed topic saved for the doctor’s office. Today’s women are asking, planning, and advocating for themselves.
June is observed as infertility awareness month, and the truth is, for many women and couples, infertility is not confined to a single month. It is a silent reality they face every day. The good news is that today, more women are speaking up, asking questions early, and taking control of their reproductive futures. That alone is a sign of change worth celebrating.
In my practice, I see patients from all walks of life navigating a deeply personal journey. The most common causes of infertility I come across include hormonal imbalances such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, low egg reserve, and male factor infertility. In lifestyle factors like stress, obesity, and delayed childbearing—the picture becomes more complex.
Yet amidst the challenges, there is hope, especially when we catch issues early. Take endometriosis, for instance, it’s a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, often silently affecting fertility. If you have had painful periods, pelvic pain, or discomfort during intimacy, do not ignore these signs. We now have simple scans and minor procedures to detect such issues early, and options like egg freezing or targeted treatment to preserve fertility.
A big part of the problem is that many women only learn about their fertility struggles when they are ready to conceive. Our bodies often signal imbalances sooner through irregular periods, hormonal acne, excessive hair growth, or painful cycles. Listening to those signs and talking to your doctor early can be the difference between rushing to catch up and being prepared.
One encouraging trend I’m seeing is the rise in women under 30 choosing to freeze their eggs. It’s not about fear, it’s about taking control. Whether they are focusing on careers, waiting for the right partner, or managing conditions like endometriosis, egg freezing gives them the freedom to plan for motherhood on their own terms.
So, when should women start thinking about egg freezing or fertility preservation? Ideally between the ages of 27 and 35. Even in your 20s, egg quality begins to decline gradually and by your mid-30s, it drops more rapidly. Freezing eggs earlier improves the odds of a healthy pregnancy later, and it’s especially crucial for women with chronic reproductive health issues or those preparing for treatments like chemotherapy.
Despite growing awareness, I still find that many young women underestimate the role age plays in fertility. IVF and egg freezing can offer options, but biology still plays by its own rules. The earlier we talk, the more choices we have.
The fertility conversation has come a long way in the last decade. It’s no longer a hushed topic saved for the doctor’s office. Today’s women are asking, planning, and advocating for themselves. Fertility is health and it deserves to be part of every woman’s healthcare journey.
Let’s keep the conversation going, not just in June, but every day.
This write-up is contributed by Dr. Charles Nagy, a Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Medcare Women and Children Hospital in Dubai
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