Infertility is an often overlooked and misunderstood condition. Many couples trying to conceive usually come face to face with unwanted advice from others who do not have full awareness and understanding of the circumstances. At the same time, those with fertility problems may be confused or at a loss as to what is really fact and what is just myth. The Center for Reproductive Medicine strives to dispel the myths surrounding fertility and bring concrete information about reproductive health to the fore.
#1. Infertility is a woman's business
There is a popular stigma that places women as solely responsible for infertility. Many people think that infertility is only a women's issue, but science proves that this couldn't be further from the truth. In fact, women account for one-third of infertility cases, while men also make up about one-third. The remaining third is due to unexplained infertility or a combination of complications. According to recent studies, “Nearly 50% of men experiencing infertility have low sperm count as the primary factor. This condition is considered the most common cause of infertility." The different causes of male infertility could include genetic defects, undescended testicles, diabetes or testicular infections. Couples experiencing fertility problems are encouraged to explore all the possibilities that may be causing delayed conception.
#2. The second child is as easy as the first
Those who had an easy conception with their first child are often confused when they struggle to conceive their second child. Secondary infertility is the inability to conceive a second child after the birth of the first. Explanations for why a couple may be experiencing infertility include factors such as age, low sperm count, endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome or damaged fallopian tubes. Popular and effective secondary infertility treatments for many couples include in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). Through various treatments couples can in most cases conceive a second child.
#3. It is almost impossible for a woman to get pregnant after 35
In general, a woman's fertility is at its peak from her teens to her mid-20s and begins to decline in her mid-30s, but it doesn't completely preclude her from becoming a mother. At 35, most women have a 15% to 20% chance of getting pregnant in a given month. This could mean 78% chance of conception within the year. Age is a contributing factor in trying to conceive, but through modern science, it has become reasonable to minimize this contributing factor. In light of today's culture, many do not consider family planning until their 30s for reasons such as career advancement or financial development and personal choices. If trying for a child is not something to consider in the near future, we recommend that the individual consider fertility preservation options.
#4. Male fertility remains continuous throughout life
Men, unlike women who stop producing eggs at a certain age, never stop producing sperm. While sperm quantity may not be a problem, sperm quality varies with age. After the age of 35, sperm quality starts to change. Studies show that the decline begins around age 35 — in one study, men over 35 had fertility rates of 25%, compared to men under 35 who had fertility rates of 52%. Conducting a sperm analysis would help in understanding the individual factors such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, sperm acidity and sperm concentration could potentially be the cause of delayed pregnancy.
If you or your partner are looking for help or wish to explore your fertility options, we are here for you. We understand that infertility can be a long and difficult journey for a couple and we have years of experience meeting everyone's needs with care. Contact today the Center for Reproductive Medicine “Dr. Alexandros Traianos" and together we will help you find the answers you are looking for. For information call the phone 
(+30) 2310 277 032 or send a message to 
email alexandrostraianos@gmail.com.
