One in six people worldwide experiences infertility at some point in their lives, according to a report released Friday by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The report highlights that despite high infertility rates, many countries lack adequate medical facilities, forcing patients to spend large sums on tests and treatments. In some cases, in vitro fertilization (IVF) can cost twice the average annual income. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called infertility “one of the most neglected public health challenges,” noting that millions go untreated. Those unable to conceive after a year of unprotected intercourse are considered infertile.
The WHO’s first clinical guidelines on infertility include 40 recommendations for evidence-based diagnosis, care and treatment, including IVF. Rising infertility is linked to factors such as maternal age, limited awareness of sexually transmitted infections, conflict, poverty and financial hardship. The report urges greater investment in affordable reproductive health services and promotes healthy lifestyles. Pascal Allotti, WHO director of sexual and reproductive health, emphasized gender equality and reproductive rights as central to preventing and treating infertility.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
