Recent health studies have revealed an alarming trend in Iran, showing that nearly three million married couples are struggling with infertility. This developing issue, growing by about five percent each year, has become a matter of national concern due to its social and demographic impact.
Dr. Emir Hasan Zernani, who heads the Reproductive Immunology Department at the Ibn Sina Research Institute, shared valuable insights during a session organized by Jihad University in Tehran. According to Zernani, the primary cause behind this growing dilemma is the increasing age of marriage and the tendency among couples to delay parenthood. He explained that while Iranians used to marry between ages 18 and 22, the current average has exceeded 28. This shift, alongside a population growth rate of 1.6 percent—below replacement level—poses a critical warning for the nation’s future demographic balance.
Dr. Zernani highlighted that persistent low birth rates could result in an aging population, higher divorce rates, and even national security concerns. Beyond the emotional challenges faced by couples, the high financial burden of infertility treatments also adds pressure on the country’s healthcare system. He emphasized that the demand seen at in-vitro fertilization (IVF) centers reflects the extent of the crisis.
According to Zernani, Iran has a narrow window—approximately five to ten years—to mitigate this problem effectively. During this critical period, he urged authorities and healthcare professionals to adopt advanced reproductive technologies, including stem cell therapies and products developed from such scientific innovations, to support infertile couples in achieving pregnancy.
The fertility struggle is not limited to women. Zernani also reported a significant decline in sperm count among Iranian men. In the past, average sperm levels ranged from 200 to 400 million, but today they hover between 20 to 60 million. He attributed this decline to industrialized lifestyles, environmental pollution, poor physical activity, and changes in dietary habits.
Considering that there are an estimated 5.9 million married couples in Iran, the rapid rise in infertility presents a serious challenge to both family well-being and the nation’s demographic stability. Experts stress that immediate policy interventions and public awareness are essential to preserve Iran’s reproductive health and secure the country’s social future.
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