Infertility and its Psychological Impact in South Africa
According to research, infertility affects 15 – 20% of couples in South Africa, leading to various psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression. This issue is being highlighted during Reproductive Health Month in February, shedding light on the struggles faced by individuals and couples trying to conceive.
Next Biosciences, a leader in reproductive health, is working towards making advanced reproductive health services more accessible and affordable in South Africa. Limited access to these services further complicates the challenges faced by those struggling with infertility.
A study published in the South African Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology revealed the prevalence of depression and anxiety in female patients undergoing fertility treatment. The study found that depression and anxiety disorders are common among these women, often going undiagnosed.
Global trends also indicate a rise in infertility worldwide, with many individuals and couples facing difficulties in starting a family. Next Biosciences has expanded its services to include carrier screening, endometrial health testing, and advanced fetal sex tests to empower women and couples across the country.
With advancements in technology, Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) has become a crucial part of prenatal care, offering safer alternatives for women during pregnancy. This technology was not available in South Africa a decade ago, highlighting the progress being made in the field of reproductive health.
It is important to address the psychological impact of infertility and provide support for individuals and couples going through this challenging journey. By raising awareness and improving access to advanced reproductive health services, we can help more people overcome infertility and achieve their dream of starting a family.
