According to Dr. Truong Nguyen Minh Tuan from the Reproductive Support Department at Tam Anh General Hospital - District 8, reproductive health in both men and women can be affected by various internal and external factors.

Age is one of the factors that directly impacts reproductive function, especially in women. As women age, their fertility gradually declines due to a decrease in the quantity and quality of their eggs. Experts recommend that women should ideally complete their families before 35, as the chances of natural conception decrease significantly after this age, along with increased risks of reproductive issues and pregnancy complications.

Men also experience a gradual decline in fertility with age. The quality and quantity of sperm decrease, affecting the ability to fertilize an egg. Older men are also at a higher risk of developing issues such as erectile dysfunction and decreased testosterone, which not only affect their ability to have children but also negatively impact their quality of life.

Dr. Tuan examines a male patient experiencing infertility. Illustration: Nguyen Thang

Genetics plays a crucial role in the reproductive health of both men and women, as well as the health of future generations. Genetic disorders can reduce the chances of conception, affect fetal development, or cause infertility in cases of serious genetic syndromes such as Down syndrome or Klinefelter syndrome. Therefore, couples with a high risk of genetic disorders should seek early consultation and treatment to protect their reproductive health. Assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) with pre-implantation genetic testing, can increase the chances of successful pregnancy and healthy births for couples carrying genetic abnormalities.

Chronic diseases like high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and obesity can also affect fertility, leading to complications during pregnancy and significantly reducing the chances of conception. Dr. Tuan noted that at Tam Anh IVF, interdisciplinary collaboration enhances the treatment of chronic diseases, helping patients conceive healthy children sooner.

Unhealthy lifestyles, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, an unbalanced diet, lack of exercise, and chronic stress, can increase genetic abnormalities, reduce the quality of eggs and sperm, and lower the chances of conception.

Dr. Tuan advises both men and women to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle. Individuals with general health or reproductive health issues should seek early treatment. Those with reproductive health concerns who are not yet married can consider egg or sperm freezing to preserve their ability to have healthy children in the future. Couples who have been trying to conceive for a year without success should consult a doctor for early diagnosis and treatment.

Hoai Thuong