Is your busy lifestyle keeping you from starting a family?

IVF Doctor: Dr. Malpani, you’ve mentioned that sexless marriages are a common issue today. How do you define this in relation to infertility?

Dr. Malpani: Technically, infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after a year of regular, unprotected intercourse. In the case of sexless marriages, these couples aren’t infertile—they’re childless due to social reasons, like not having time for intimacy.

IVF Doctor: You call this "social infertility." What exactly does that mean?

Dr. Malpani: Social infertility or childlessness refers to couples who are so busy with work and life that they don’t engage in regular sexual activity. It’s more of a lifestyle problem than a medical one.

IVF Doctor: Can you share examples of why this happens in modern relationships?

Dr. Malpani: Sure. Many urban couples are so career-focused that they barely spend time together. Travelling for work, weekend chores, or stress leaves them with no energy or libido for intimacy.

IVF Doctor: Do these issues lead to other sexual problems?

Dr. Malpani: Absolutely. Stress and lack of intimacy can result in conditions like erectile dysfunction, impotence, or vaginismus, making conception even more challenging.

IVF Doctor: What’s the psychological impact of such situations on couples?

Dr. Malpani: It’s tough. Many feel frustrated or guilty about prioritising professional success over personal happiness, realising too late that their sexless marriage is a barrier to starting a family.

IVF Doctor: How often do such couples end up seeking IVF as a solution?

Dr. Malpani: Very often. Instead of addressing their underlying relationship and lifestyle issues, many jump to IVF as a quick fix, though it may not be the best solution.

IVF Doctor: What alternatives do you recommend for such couples?

Dr. Malpani: Self-insemination is a simpler option that they can try at home. However, I emphasise that the best plan is to restore intimacy and conceive naturally.

IVF Doctor: What advice would you give couples to avoid this situation?

Dr. Malpani: It’s essential to get priorities straight. Make time for each other, reduce stress, and nurture intimacy. A strong relationship is crucial for both personal happiness and parenthood.

IVF Doctor: How do you guide couples who are already dealing with these challenges?

Dr. Malpani: I encourage them to balance their personal and professional lives, address sexual difficulties with counselling if needed, and explore options like self-insemination or lifestyle changes before resorting to medical treatments like IVF.