Infertility on the Rise—And Often Overlooked
As infertility rates continue to climb across the United States, medical experts are emphasizing the importance of early fertility education. A recent study reveals that 70% of women have never discussed their fertility health with a physician—despite growing concerns over reproductive challenges. In Texas, the decline is particularly stark: while the fertility rate stood at 79.2 births per 1,000 women in 2007, it dropped to just 61.9 in 2022.
Dr. David Prokai, a fertility specialist at Aspire Fertility in Austin, attributes much of the decline to lifestyle changes and shifting priorities. “People are waiting longer to start families—and for a lot of good reasons—but that delay can come with consequences,” Prokai noted. He explained that infertility affects approximately one in six couples, making it far more common than many realize.
According to Prokai, many patients do not even consider discussing fertility until they are ready to conceive, by which time age-related fertility decline can already be a significant factor.
The Value of Fertility Education Awareness and Early Conversations
Prokai emphasized that while each woman’s reproductive health is unique, the biological clock is real and affects everyone. “The key message we share with patients is that no one is immune to age-related fertility decline,” he said. Women over 35 may face increased difficulty in conceiving, and these challenges grow more pronounced as they approach 40.
He recommends initiating fertility conversations with a healthcare provider as soon as there’s even a small question about future family planning. “If it crosses your mind—ask. It’s always better to be informed,” he advised.
When investigating fertility issues, specialists assess a wide range of factors. These include ovarian health (such as egg reserve and regularity of ovulation), anatomical conditions (issues in the cervix, uterus, or fallopian tubes), and hormonal imbalances (such as thyroid disorders). Importantly, male fertility also plays a major role and is often overlooked. “Sperm count and overall male health can significantly impact a couple’s chances of conceiving,” Prokai added.
Fighting Fertility Education Myths and Preserving the Future
Misconceptions about infertility abound. Prokai mentioned that many of his patients mistakenly believe birth control causes long-term infertility or that timing intercourse with absolute precision is necessary. “Trying to perfectly time conception can add unnecessary stress. There is no magic date,” he said.
The influence of social media, while helpful in some ways, has also spread misinformation. Personal stories online can be powerful, but they don’t always reflect the full medical picture. “Not all fertility journeys are alike. Social media often omits key health factors like age or egg quality,” Prokai warned. Nonetheless, he encourages patients to bring any questions sparked by online content to their physicians.
To help people plan better for the future, fertility preservation has become an increasingly viable option. “Today, people can freeze eggs, embryos, or sperm. It’s especially beneficial for patients facing medical treatments like chemotherapy,” Prokai said. Preserving reproductive materials before such interventions can significantly improve the chances of achieving pregnancy later in life.
In a world where fertility is becoming a growing concern, Prokai and fellow experts stress the importance of education, proactive healthcare, and open conversations—before time becomes a limiting factor.
