Young People’s Fertility: The Impact of Delayed Pregnancy and Information Gap

The impact of delayed pregnancy and a significant lack of information about conception on the fertility of younger individuals has been highlighted in a recent study. The research, conducted by the National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre at Cork University Maternity Hospital and titled ‘Knowledge on Impact of Lifestyle and Demographic Factors on Fertility’, was published in the Irish Medical Journal.

The study revealed that a substantial number of younger individuals, especially students, are not aware of the necessity of seeking medical help if they experience difficulty conceiving for more than a year. Among the 480 participants, 44 per cent of students displayed significant knowledge gaps, particularly in areas such as fertility perception, Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART), and associated success rates. This lack of awareness was further evident when comparing university students with outpatient attendees at a tertiary maternity unit.

One concerning finding was the misconception among students that a woman’s overall health and fitness level is a more accurate indicator of her fertility status than her age. Additionally, over 22 per cent of participants incorrectly believed that assisted reproductive technologies allow most women to have a baby with their own eggs at any age.

The study also highlighted the increasing age of mothers giving birth, with the average age recorded in 2021 being 33.3 years, the highest in over six decades. Furthermore, there has been a one-third increase in the number of births to women aged 40 and over in the past ten years.

The co-authors of the study emphasized the need for greater awareness of fertility and the consequences of delayed pregnancies, as well as the influence of lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol, weight, and diet on fertility. They also noted misconceptions about the impact of a man’s age on birth defects and the cost and effectiveness of In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).

In conclusion, the study highlights the critical importance of addressing knowledge gaps in fertility, particularly among younger individuals. Raising awareness and providing accurate information are essential for informed decision-making and timely interventions in family planning. These findings can serve as a foundation for the improvement of fertility services.