As more people choose to start families later in life, fertility care is undergoing a significant transformation. Advances in assisted reproductive technologies, growing awareness around fertility preservation, and a stronger focus on personalized treatment are reshaping the path to parenthood. Yet, misconceptions about IVF and infertility continue to discourage many couples from seeking timely medical support.
In this exclusive conversation, Dr. Hrishikesh Pai, one of India’s leading fertility specialists, discusses how delayed parenthood is influencing the global fertility landscape, debunks common myths surrounding IVF, highlights the importance of proactive fertility planning, and shares practical advice on protecting reproductive health.
He also offers an encouraging message for couples navigating the emotional journey of infertility, emphasizing that informed decisions and early intervention can make all the difference.
1. Dr. Hrishikesh Pai, delayed parenthood is becoming increasingly common. How is this changing the fertility landscape globally?
Delayed parenthood has become a defining trend worldwide as people prioritize higher education, career growth, financial stability, and personal aspirations before starting a family. While this shift reflects changing social dynamics, it also means more individuals are attempting pregnancy at an age when fertility naturally declines. Female fertility begins to decrease after the age of 30 and drops more significantly after 35, while advancing paternal age can also affect fertility and pregnancy outcomes. As a result, we are seeing a growing demand for fertility assessments, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), fertility preservation, and personalized treatment plans. This changing landscape also underscores the importance of fertility awareness and early reproductive planning so individuals can make informed decisions about their future.
2. Dr. Hrishikesh Pai, what are the biggest misconceptions that people still have about IVF and assisted reproductive technologies?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that IVF guarantees pregnancy regardless of age. In reality, success rates depend on several factors, including age, egg quality, sperm health, and underlying medical conditions. Another common myth is that IVF always results in multiple pregnancies, whereas advances in embryo selection and single embryo transfer have significantly reduced that risk. Many also believe IVF is only for women, but nearly 40-50% of infertility cases involve male factors. There is also unnecessary stigma around fertility treatment, despite infertility affecting nearly one in six couples globally. Modern reproductive medicine is safe, evidence-based, and continually evolving to improve outcomes while prioritizing patient well-being.
3. Dr. Hrishikesh Pai, how important is fertility preservation, and when should individuals consider options like egg or embryo freezing?
Fertility preservation has become an essential component of reproductive healthcare. Egg or embryo freezing offers individuals the opportunity to preserve their reproductive potential before age-related fertility decline or before undergoing medical treatments such as chemotherapy that may impact fertility. Women who wish to delay parenthood for personal or professional reasons should ideally consider egg freezing in their late 20s or early 30s, when egg quality is generally at its best. Fertility preservation empowers individuals with greater reproductive choice, but it should be viewed as a proactive option rather than a guaranteed insurance policy. Early consultation with a fertility specialist helps determine the most appropriate timing based on individual circumstances.
4. Dr. Hrishikesh Pai, what lifestyle changes can significantly improve reproductive health for both men and women?
Reproductive health is closely linked to overall health. Maintaining a healthy body weight, following a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, exercising regularly, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress all contribute to improved fertility. Equally important is avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, recreational drugs, and exposure to environmental toxins, all of which can negatively impact egg and sperm quality. Men should also pay attention to factors such as obesity, diabetes, and prolonged heat exposure, which may affect sperm production. Regular health check-ups and timely evaluation of reproductive health can identify issues early and improve the chances of natural conception or treatment success if needed.
5. Dr. Hrishikesh Pai, what message would you like to share with couples who may be hesitant to seek fertility treatment?
Infertility is a medical condition, not a personal failure, and seeking help should never be viewed as a source of stigma. The earlier couples seek professional guidance—especially if they have been trying to conceive for a year, or six months if the woman is over 35—the greater the range of treatment options available. Advances in reproductive medicine have enabled millions of couples worldwide to achieve successful pregnancies. My message is simple: do not let fear, misinformation, or social pressure delay your journey. With the right medical support, personalized treatment, and emotional resilience, parenthood is possible for many couples who once believed it was out of reach.