Answering Your Most Common Questions About Fertility

Every year on June 4th, we observe World Fertility Day, a time to raise awareness about the increasing number of fertility challenges people face and to highlight the importance of knowing when to seek help from a specialist.

Dr. Claudio Álvarez, Medical Director of the Reproduction Unit at Centro Gutenberg, answered a series of questions about fertility from readers of La Opinión de Málaga, covering everything from age and medical conditions to the effects of COVID-19 on pregnancy.

Highlights From the Q&A Session:

Can I become a mother at 43 with low ovarian reserve and a blocked fallopian tube?
It’s possible, but the chances are low. IVF with your own eggs has a pregnancy rate below 5%. The most effective alternative is egg donation, with a success rate of 50–60% per cycle and up to 80–90% cumulatively.

Does gluten intolerance impact fertility?
Uncontrolled autoimmune conditions like celiac disease can negatively affect reproductive outcomes.

I have vitiligo—will it affect my fertility?
Vitiligo hasn’t been directly linked to infertility, but like other immune-related conditions, it could theoretically affect reproductive function.

Can endocrine disruptors in beauty products affect fertility?
These chemicals may interfere with hormone levels and potentially impact fertility. It’s best to avoid exposure when possible.

Is it safe to start fertility treatment during the pandemic?
In most cases, yes—but decisions should be made individually. If every month matters due to age or medical reasons, treatment can proceed with enhanced precautions.

What if my partner had COVID-19?
Some studies show traces of the virus in semen after recovery. Waiting a few months is advised before starting fertility treatments.

I have hypothyroidism—can I get pregnant?
Yes, if well controlled. Untreated hypothyroidism can lead to infertility and miscarriage.

Can I still conceive with a low anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) level?
AMH reflects egg quantity, not quality. Age and other factors also influence your chances. Fertility treatments may still help.

When should I freeze my eggs and how long do they last?
The ideal age is before 35. With vitrification, eggs can be preserved without loss of quality. In Spain, the treatment age limit is 50 for ethical reasons.

What COVID-19 safety measures are in place at URE?
URE Centro Gutenberg follows all national health guidelines and has enhanced safety protocols for patients and staff.

Can past COVID-19 infection affect fertility?
There’s currently no evidence that COVID-19 affects reproductive function long-term.

What precautions should be taken when trying to conceive during the pandemic?
Standard safety practices apply: mask use, hand hygiene, social distancing, and avoiding contact with your face.

My partner is 51 and I’m 39—is age a problem?
Sperm quality declines after 40–45, increasing the risk of miscarriage and chromosomal issues—but most pregnancies are successful.

Can alcohol impact fertility?
Yes. Excessive alcohol, tobacco, drugs, obesity, and environmental toxins are all avoidable causes of infertility.

I’m 39 and have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Can I still get pregnant?
PCOS affects ovulation and egg quality. Treatment is recommended to improve fertility outcomes.

Thank you for joining us for another session on questions about fertility. We’re committed to providing clear, reliable answers to your concerns about reproductive health and assisted conception.

If you’d like to read more questions and expert answers, feel free to visit our dedicated fertility Q&A page.

As always, URE Centro Gutenberg is open for in-person appointments. You can request a consultation online or by calling us at +34 952 122 565. Your first fertility consultation is free.