The growing concern over infertility in Jammu and Kashmir deserves serious public-health attention, but it also requires a careful understanding of its causes. The increasing prevalence of PCOS and related hormonal disorders among women of reproductive age is worrying, yet infertility cannot be reduced to a single condition or blamed solely on women. Changing lifestyles are undoubtedly part of the problem. Sedentary routines, obesity, unhealthy diets, inadequate sleep, stress and prolonged working or study hours can affect hormonal and metabolic health. PCOS, which can disrupt ovulation, may make conception difficult for some women. However, with timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment and lifestyle changes, many women with PCOS can conceive. There are equally important concerns beyond PCOS. Untreated pelvic infections can damage reproductive organs, while unsafe abortions and procedures conducted by unqualified persons can have serious and sometimes irreversible consequences. Better awareness of contraception, reproductive health and the importance of seeking qualified medical care is therefore essential. At the same time, delayed marriage is becoming increasingly common because of education, employment and financial pressures. Female fertility does decline with age, making informed fertility counselling particularly important for those who plan to delay parenthood. This issue, however, should be discussed sensitively rather than through fear or social pressure. Most importantly, infertility must be recognised as a couple’s health issue. Male factors also contribute substantially to infertility and should receive equal attention in diagnosis and treatment. Jammu and Kashmir needs stronger reproductive-health education, accessible gynaecological and fertility services, prevention and early treatment of infections, and greater awareness about healthy lifestyles. Schools, colleges and healthcare institutions can play a constructive role in providing evidence-based information. A declining population fertility rate and individual infertility are not the same phenomenon. Policymaking must distinguish between them. The objective should not be to pressure people into having children, but to ensure that those who wish to become parents have timely, affordable and scientifically sound healthcare to do so.
Raising children in age of screens: Parenting can no longer be left to instinct alone
Dr. Reyaz Ahmad Someone once rightly said, “It takes a community to raise a child.” For generations, that community was...
