With several unprecedented changes occurring in the lifestyle of modern people, there has been a rise in the number of issues related to reproductive health. Increase in Infertility problem among modern people has raised concern over this sensitive portion in the medical industry.

Reproductive Health and its Significance

Reproductive health does not only deal with reproductive disease or informality but it also includes a state of total mental, physical, and social well-being. Reproductive health broadly deals with the reproductive functions, processes, and systems during all the stages of one’s life.  Individuals are said to be having normal reproductive health when they are able to have a safe and satisfying sex life and are capable of reproducing as well as have the freedom of deciding how often and when to do so.

Reproductive health has become a universal concern nowadays, with more consideration for women during reproductive years. Although men are also found to have such problems, the extent of their being affected with reproductive issues is comparatively less than women. Reproductive health has become a vital component of general health. The crucial healthcare processes such as STD prevention, family planning, and prevention of perinatal and maternal mortality and morbidity fall under reproductive health, making it all the more important.

Infertility-Related Issues and their Significance

A woman’s inability to become pregnant (being unable to conceive) after a year of unprotected sex is generally defined as infertility. Women with irregular menstrual cycles, or those above 35 years of age and have not been able to conceive after trying for a period of six months need to consider consulting an infertility specialist. Infertility is not just concerned with women; men also contribute to it.

A significant portion of people the world over are affected by infertility and subfertility. This disease that affects the reproductive system results in disability – resulting in couples’ inability to achieve or maintain pregnancy. This issue is being addressed by the department of endocrinology- the healthcare field dealing with reproductive medicine.

Present and Future Research Areas in Reproductive Health /Infertility

• Finding innovative methods of contraception
• Finding solutions to recurrent spontaneous miscarriages
• Addressing  and managing complications related to neonatal  issues or pre-term birth
• Achieving zero transmission of STD and HIV

Causes and Prevention of Infertility

Human infertility may be caused by various conditions that result from infectious or environmental agents, genetic abnormalities, and some behaviors. In addition to these, the natural aging process also plays a role in limiting human fertility. Early detection and treatment of conditions and deficiencies will lead to prevention of infertility and reproductive health issues.

An effective public health strategy that focuses on prevention of risk factors for infertility will help in reducing the prevalence of reproductive health issues and infertility. It may also improve the overall quality of life and health of individuals.