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12th July 2024 (9 Topics)

Breaking the taboo around men’s reproductive health

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Context

World Population Day (July 11) highlights the need to address male infertility, a stigmatized and often neglected aspect of reproductive health in India.

Prevalence and Causes of Male Infertility:

  • Global Scale: WHO estimates 60-80 million couples worldwide struggle with infertility.
  • Indian Scenario: Approximately 13-19 million Indian couples may face infertility issues, with male infertility accounting for 50% of all cases.
  • Causal Factors: Stress, hormonal imbalance, genetic and epigenetic factors, environmental pollution, lifestyle choices, and delayed marriages contribute to male infertility.

Addressing Male Reproductive Health:

  • Awareness and Education: Emphasize the importance of reproductive health education, particularly during secondary school and junior college years.
  • Lifestyle Interventions: Promote healthy eating, regular sleep patterns, stress reduction through exercise and meditation, and avoidance of alcohol and tobacco.
  • Medical Treatments: Options include surgery for physical issues, assisted reproductive technologies like IUI, IVF, and ICSI, and genetic counseling for gene mutation cases.

Challenges and Way Forward:

  • Stigma and Silence: Male infertility remains a taboo subject, impeding progress and affecting those struggling with the issue.
  • Increasing Prevalence: Environmental pollution and lifestyle shifts are expected to increase infertility rates.
  • Holistic Approach: Combine lifestyle interventions, medical treatments, and public awareness to address male reproductive health comprehensively.
UPSC Mains Questions:

Q. Discuss the socio-economic implications of rising male infertility in India. What policy measures can be implemented to address this issue effectively?

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