Battling for a baby

CHALLENGE: DISTRESSING RISE IN INFERTILITY AMONG WOMEN

- Hein Kaiser

(Pictures: Supplied and iStock)

Infertility is becoming an increasing health challenge facing women in the West. Rising obesity, insulin resistance and delayed motherhood, along with underlying hormonal and structural conditions, are making female infertility more common and more complex than a decade ago, says gynaecologist Dr Zanele Ngwenya.

The first sign something is wrong comes with month-after-month negative pregnancy tests.

“The most common cause is ovulatory disorders,” Ngwenya said and zoomed into polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) which disrupts ovulation.

If no egg is released, pregnancy cannot occur. The condition is strongly linked to insulin resistance, which is often tied to weight gain and metabolic changes, she said.

“Increased Body Mass Index (BMI) causes insulin resistance, high androgens and hormonal imbalance,” Ngwenya added.

A woman must meet at least two of three markers which are irregular, or absent periods, elevated male hormones either in blood tests or visible through acne and excess facial hair, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound.

Ngwenya said lifestyle changes are the first go-to in treatment. 'Lifestyle modification is the easiest way to manage PCOS.”