A Modern Dilemma: An Interview with Dr. Martina Novotná

Emancipation gives women the opportunity to make decisions about both their personal and professional lives. Although most of them desire a family, starting one is often not their top priority. Parenthood is frequently postponed “until after school, after building a career, after a big trip around the world.” Sometimes life feels so full that doubts even arise about whether to have children at all. For most women, however, the desire for a child comes between the ages of 30 and 45.

“Parenthood is often postponed “until after school, after a career, after a big trip around the world.”

The problem is that a later age has its pitfalls,” warns Dr. Martina Novotná. “Health issues that negatively affect fertility become more pronounced, and its natural decline begins to manifest.” While up to the age of 35 only 10–15% of couples first receive concerning information about their fertility, by the age of 40 it affects 90% of them. For many, this comes as a shock. Until then, they had felt fully in control of their lives and had overcome every obstacle. Many lived healthily, exercised regularly, and suddenly… infertility.

It is natural that this reality is difficult to accept. A phase of denial often follows, when the couple refuses treatment and believes they will manage naturally, usually without success. Then come anger, sadness, anxiety and hopelessness, until acceptance gradually sets in. Some remain childless, others choose adoption, and most decide to do everything possible for a child of their own.

“The problem is that older age comes with its challenges”

It is natural that this reality is difficult to accept. Often, there is a phase of denial, when a couple refuses treatment and believes they can succeed naturally—usually without success. Then come anger, sadness, anxiety, and even hopelessness, until gradually acceptance occurs. Some remain childless, others choose adoption, and most decide to do everything possible to have their own child.

At a younger age, IVF may not be necessary; sometimes hormonal treatment or surgery is sufficient. After 35, however, IVF becomes increasingly common. After 40, conceiving without assisted reproduction is almost a miracle. Psychological support during treatment leads to better outcomes, which is why at Reprofit we have partnered with a physician—fertility coach—and established a support group to help navigate emotions and maintain hope throughout the journey to parenthood.

The best approach is to prevent infertility whenever possible, and often this is achievable. However, it requires active family planning. Modern medicine offers a variety of options, from egg freezing to early diagnosis of potential problems. Take a moment, at your own pace, to clarify whether and when you want to start a family. An informed decision respects both your freedom and the time that nature has given us.