On episode 29 of Sisters Without Shame, Centurion fertility specialist, obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Qinisile Diale sheds light on the baby making journey – especially if it comes with much trying, waiting and heartache.
Dr Q as she is fondly known unpacks infertility and what to do if you have interests in starting a family after 35. If you have been trying and failing to have a baby for 12-months, then it is likely you should get checked for infertility she says.
According to Diale infertility can affect both men and women and can make it difficult to conceive. “At this point [12 months] it should be that the partners in question are not on any contraception and engage in intercourse as regular as about three times a week, at least, or every alternate day,” she says.
When a woman is older than 35 the amount of time she tries to conceive drops to six months for infertility to be diagnosed. In women 40 and older immediate evaluation is standard.
Diale adds, as women age their chances of fertility decrease, “so the longer we take to have babies, the quality of the eggs gets poorer and poorer.”
What are the causes of infertility in women?
According to Diale there are many causes for infertility including age, and alcohol abuse among others.
Four more complications include:
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome
This syndrome affects approximately 15% of the women population, and women with this condition may not ovulate at all.
- Pelvic Inflammatory Diseases
Causes a swelling in the uterus which in turn cause swelling and blockage of fallopian tubes because of sexually transmitted diseases.
- Endometriosis
A disorder in which tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside the uterus, it also leads to infertility.
- Fibroids
Growths that develop in or around the womb. The growths are made up of muscle and fibrous tissue and they vary in size. There are no visible symptoms as a result many women are unaware that they have fibroids.
What are your options?
Should women have any interest in having children then you should probably get that bun in the oven before 35.
“If you want to have three kids, you should be pregnant by 27. If you want to have less, you can make babies around 30.”
And if motherhood is not on the cards yet, Dr Q advises you check on your egg quality regularly with your gynae when you turn 30.
“When you are between 30-35 you should consult your gynae about the quality of your eggs,” she says.
Remember it takes two to create a life from start to finish.
“Overcoming the causes of infertility does not guarantee healthy babies. Keep in mind that due to complications relating to the DNA quality, women over 40 have 40% chances of having a miscarriage in their pregnancy.”
Be wise, make the best decision for you, and happy baby making she adds.
Listen to the full interview on Sisters Without Shame
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