KOZHIKODE: For couples living apart in different cities or countries due to work, opportunities for conception can be significantly limited. Dr. K.U. Kunjimoideen, Fertility Specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF, Kozhikode, emphasized that the actual duration spent together trying to conceive is far more critical than the total duration of marriage. In Kerala, where many families live apart for much of the year, festive seasons like Onam offer a valuable opportunity for couples to spend quality time together. Dr. Kunjimoideen highlighted the importance of timing intercourse around ovulation, specifically during the six-day ‘fertile window’ ending on the day of ovulation, when the chances of pregnancy are highest.
However, lack of time together is not the sole factor in delayed conception. Even with regular ovulation, underlying factors such as blocked fallopian tubes, male fertility issues, age, endometriosis, PCOS, or past surgeries can impact fertility. Therefore, comprehensive fertility evaluations involving both partners are essential, including assessing female ovulation and reproductive health alongside male semen analysis. Generally, fertility evaluations are recommended after 12 months of consistent efforts for women under 35, and after six months for those over 35; however, earlier testing is advised if conditions like irregular periods or male fertility factors exist. Dr. Kunjimoideen encourages returning couples during festive breaks to openly discuss family planning, age, available time, and potential fertility assessments rather than treating it as an added burden.
