Infertility is often associated with individuals who are trying to conceive later in life, but it can also affect young people who may or may not be thinking about having children. As the Va Va Womb founder, my experience of the word "fertility" hit me at 16 years old after being taught in sex education the very binary journey to Motherhood and into Womanhood would be a one size fits all. I was merely a child finding out I may never carry a child due to a teen diagnosis of MRKH syndrome; being born with an underdeveloped uterus and vaginal canal. There are many reasons young individuals may experience difficult diagnosis' that mean they suffer from growing up knowing having children may be a difficult journey. There are many barriers we face through self esteem, relationships, sexuality, , stigma, trauma and grief that several different communities similarly share.
Our support group is here to bring advocates together who have been through different experiences, spread the support offered by the nice registered charities and build a community of likeminded people looking for support, somewhere to share their story or a place where they are understood. We hope to spread this support network far and wide to reach as many young people with infertility, of all genders, who need to know they are not alone.
Here's some reasons why young people may face infertility before the age of 21:
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS is a common hormonal disorder among young people that can impact fertility. It is characterised by enlarged ovaries containing small cysts, irregular menstrual cycles, and hormonal imbalances. PCOS can cause irregular ovulation or anovulation, making it more challenging to conceive. Symptoms of PCOS may include irregular periods, excess hair growth, acne, and weight gain.
Premature Ovarian Insufficiency:
One in 10,000 under 20 experience POI as per The Daisy Network. Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), also known as premature ovarian insufficiency or early menopause, is a condition in which the ovaries stop functioning properly before the age of 40. It is characterised by a loss of normal ovarian function, including a decline in the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, and a decrease in the number of eggs available in the ovaries. Those with POI may experience irregular or absent menstrual periods, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and mood changes.
MRKH syndrome
MRKH affects 1 in 5000 vulva owners born female. Young people usually find out as a young teenagers when they do not see menstrual blood. MRKH is characterised by the total absent or underdevelopment of the reproductive system, the uterus, vagina and cervix do not develop properly or not at all, usually ovaries function as they typically would.
Cancer and serious medical conditions (ref cancer.org)
People who have been treated for cancer as children or teenagers (adolescents) are often of special concern when it comes to thinking about having children. Certain types of cancer surgery can remove organs needed to have a pregnancy, and certain treatments might damage sex organs or affect hormone levels. Some children and teenagers lose their fertility for a short time because of cancer treatment and sometimes treatment can cause complete and irreversible infertility.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID is an infection that affects the female reproductive organs, such as the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. It is often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that are left untreated. PID can lead to scarring, blockage, or damage to the fallopian tubes, making it difficult for the egg to meet sperm for fertilization. Early detection and treatment of STIs are crucial in preventing PID.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where the tissue lining the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus, commonly affecting the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining. The presence of endometrial tissue in other areas can cause inflammation, scarring, and adhesions, leading to infertility. Young individuals with endometriosis may experience severe pelvic pain, heavy periods, and pain during intercourse.
Genetic or Chromosomal Differences in sex development (DSDs)
Certain genetic or chromosomal conditions can affect fertility in young people. Examples include Turner syndrome, where a female is born with only one X chromosome, or Klinefelter syndrome, where males have an extra X chromosome (XXY). These conditions can lead to reproductive challenges, such as early ovarian insufficiency or low sperm count, impacting fertility potential.
Queer teens:
Young LGBTQI+ people (not all identify as queer) may realise early that they may have struggles to face in the future when it comes to fertility equality and fertility treatment and this may effect them in many different ways psychologically.
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