Requiring attention

The issue of infertility in Jammu and Kashmir deserves serious public-health attention, but one must also understand the possible reasons behind it. The rise in PCOS and other hormonal irregularities is a matter of great concern, but infertility cannot be attributed to just one reason or one group of people. Lifestyle diseases such as obesity due to lack of exercise or a poor diet, lack of sleep, stress and long working hours may also contribute to infertility. PCOS is a big factor as it decreases chances of ovulation, but with the right treatment and lifestyles, affected women can still lead to normal childbirths. Besides PCOS, other factors such as pelvic infections, unsafe abortions by unqualified doctors, can be detrimental to future motherhood. Therefore, better education and awareness about contraception and infertility in general is required. Women are getting married late these days due to many pursuing higher education and careers before starting a family.  As they age, female fertility reduces, so such women should be counseled about their reproductive health to make informed decisions about parenthood. Male infertility, on the other hand, needs to be addressed more. Infertility is a couple’s issue and both sides need to be considered when tackling the problem. Jammu and Kashmir needs to have better education, more gynaecologists and infertility treatment options, better infection control to prevent miscarriages, and encourage better lifestyles. Colleges and medical institutions can help raise awareness about infertility and sexual health. A low fertility rate and individual infertility are two separate issues that need to be treated as such. The government must not actively encourage or promote parenthood by any means, but rather provide necessary treatment for those who wish to have children.