Infertility remains one of the major health problems of contemporary society, affecting millions of couples worldwide. According to World Health Organization (WHO) statistics, up to 17.5% of the adult population, equivalent to approximately 1 in 6 couples, experienced infertility in 2024. This problem is becoming increasingly common not only a result of biological factors, but also due to the impact of modern lifestyles and the postponement of parenthood. What are the main causes of infertility, what medical advances are being made and what hope awaits couples who dream of starting a family?
The increasing prevalence of infertility
Infertility in 2024 affected peoples of every nation, regardless of economic or cultural context.
Root Causes:
- Delaying parenthood: The average age of first-time mothers is steadily increasing in developed countries. Across Europe, for example, the age was nearly 30 last year, a significant increase from previous years. However, natural fertility declines with age.
- Declining sperm quality: A study from 2023 finds that sperm concentration in men has declined by 50% over the last 50 years, mainly due to environmental toxins, unhealthy lifestyles and stress.
- Health problems: Diseases such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affect up to 10% of women of current reproductive age and are among the leading causes of infertility.
Advances in infertility treatment
In 2024, medical progress offered innovative solutions that increased the chances of conception:
- Advanced IVF methods: The success rate of in vitro fertilization has increased significantly in recent years. According to the European Society for Human Reproduction (ESHRE), the average success rate of an IVF cycle is now approximately 32% per embryo (for women under 35).
- Cryopreservation: The number of frozen eggs and embryos in Europe has increased by more than 40% in the last 5 years, allowing couples to postpone parenthood without losing the quality of their biological material.
- Personalised treatment: Thanks to genetic testing and a personalised approach, doctors can better diagnose and address the causes of infertility, boosting the success rate of treatment.
Statistics and trends in treatment
- Expansion of assisted reproduction: The number of babies born through assisted reproductive techniques has surpassed 12 million worldwide as of 2024.
- International treatment: More and more couples travelled abroad for treatment. For example, Cyprus, Spain and the Czech Republic are among the most favored destinations thanks to their top clinics and flexible legislation.
- Influence of lifestyle: Up to 30% of infertility cases are linked to factors that can be influenced by lifestyle changes, such as a improved diet, elimination of stress and increased regular exercise.
Challenges and future of infertility treatment
Despite advances, infertile couples often remain faced with emotional, financial and social challenges:
- Financial costs: The cost of infertility treatment can be high for many couples. In 2024, one cycle of IVF cost an average of €3,000 to €10,000, depending on the country and method.
- Stigma: Despite growing global awareness and acceptance, infertility remains a taboo topic in some cultures.
- Technological advances: Among the most anticipated innovations that scientists are still working on are genetic therapies, bioprinting of reproductive organs and the use of artificial intelligence to optimise processes.