A poll of 2000 women in the UK showed:
Two thirds of couples who fail to conceive think their past lifestyle has contributed to their fertility problems.
But the most common causes of problems are not ovulating (39 per cent of women), polycystic ovary syndrome (20 per cent), blocked fallopian tubes (18 per cent) and low sperm count (19 per cent of men).
An estimated one in seven couples have fertility problems.
The average couple who failed to conceive said their GP only acknowledged their fertility problem after 17 months of trying for a baby.
Stacey's comment:
The last statistic is really sad I think. Medical professionals are missing the boat here. When a couple comes in with concern in regards to their fertility and they have been trying for less than 12 months, usually they are told "not to worry" come and see me if it is longer than a year. Then these are the same professionals who if you come to see them again think, "they should have started sooner. Time is running out" and other beliefs that don't help the couple. When a patient walks in to a doctor's office and is concerned about their fertility this is the perfect opportunity to start the education process and help the patient become empowered to take charge of their health and their fertility. Too many times if a medical professional doesn't prescribe a medication or if they feel its too early to prescribe one since the couple hasn't been trying for too long this is the perfect the couple not only leaves the office empty handed but none of their fears, destructive beliefs, poor diet choices, poor lifestyle choices or problems in their relationship go away. All that happens is they continue to go through life and most don't make any changes.
Medical professionals have such an opportunity here to put down their perscription pads and connect with the patient. Educate the patient. They can help the patient empower themselves. I realise the average doctor is extremely short on time but referring them for nutritional advice and prenatal education would make such a huge constructive impact on the couple.
I really hope that some day physicians will realise they have this opportunity to really make a difference in someone's life. There are many physicians that do take this approach but unfortunately they are in the minority. So keep your eyes and ears peeled for a GP that will work with you to improve your health and fertility and work in conjunction with your naturopath as well. The best results for you come from a team effort.
