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Yashaswini Ghorpade and Harmeet Desai

Sudipta Biswas

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'Bhaiya, We Can Still Make It Happen': How Yashaswini Inspired Hesitant Harmeet Desai to End India’s 72-Year Wait

Table Tennis

Asian Table Tennis Championships

Harmeet Desai

Yashaswini Ghorpade

Asian Table tennis medal for India

Sports

A couple of years ago, Harmeet Desai could not even imagine playing mixed doubles, let alone winning a medal. But belief can make wonderful things happen. At the Asian <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/taneesha-kotechas-olympic-dream-and-her-mission-to-make-table-tennis-history-article-156310032" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Table Tennis</a> Championships in Tashkent, Harmeet, pairing up with Yashaswini Ghorpade, pulled off a remarkable result for India. The duo beat South Korea’s Park Ganghyeon and Lee Daeun 3-2 (11-6, 8-11, 8-11, 11-9, 11-9) in a thrilling quarterfinal clash to secure a bronze medal and end India’s 72-year wait. Yatin Vyas and Meena Parande were the last Indians to win a mixed doubles silver in 1954. The result had been in the making for some time. A scratch pair, put together just before the 2024 Paris Olympics to see how things would work out, had struck the right chord. The idea was driven by mixed doubles’ inclusion in the team event for the Los Angeles Olympics and 22-year-old Yashaswini’s fierce attacking ability. “I had been following Yashaswini for a couple of years before that, and I had never seen anyone attack the ball the way she did with her pimple rubbers. That was kind of an X-factor in mixed doubles. I thought that if I could improve certain aspects of my game, we could become a very good mixed doubles pair,” Harmeet told Sports Now. Yashaswini, he acknowledged, already possessed a ferocious attack and brilliant receiving skills with her pimple rubbers. Harmeet knew he had to raise his game to complement her strengths, and his efforts paid off. He developed a venomous counter-attacking game that is now among the fiercest in the world. It was never easy, though. Against Park and Lee in the quarterfinals, the Indians set the tempo by winning the opening game. Yet Harmeet was not convinced they could pull off the victory. Yashaswini, however, remained unfazed even when the Koreans surged to a 7-1 lead in the fourth game. “Definitely, I believed we could do something good at the Asian Championships and win a medal, but the match had its ups and downs. My belief was shaken a bit because we started well but couldn't convert our chances in the second and third games. I began to feel that it was going to be really hard, and my confidence started to waver,” Harmeet admitted. <h2> Yashaswini pushes Harmeet</h2> The Indians’ strategy from the outset was simple: attack aggressively and hold their ground. They put Park and Lee under immense pressure. Harmeet stepped out of his comfort zone, defending from away from the table. In the process, he created opportunities for counter-attacks, while Yashaswini’s ability to receive serves with her pimple rubbers kept the Indians in contention for a historic medal. “I hardly believed we could turn it around against such a tough opponents, but Yashaswini kept believing. She also told me, 'Bhaiya, we can still make it happen'. She strongly believed we could do it. Her energy motivated me, too. I thought that if she believed in us, I had to push really hard and try to make it happen,” Harmeet added. As the Indians levelled things up by taking the fourth game, Harmeet grew in confidence and mounted a strong challenge to wrest the match from Park and Lee. Their bid to go one better and match Yatin and Meena, however, ended in a hard-fought semifinal defeat to Sora Matsushima and Miwa Harimoto. <h2>'Mixed doubles was not my cup of tea'</h2> A medal of this magnitude tends to instill confidence and fuel ambitions for bigger goals. But when Harmeet and Yashaswini first paired up, he simply wanted to see how he would fare in the discipline. Winning a medal was far from his mind. “It feels very, very special to win a mixed doubles medal at this stage of my career. If somebody had asked me a couple of years ago, I would not even have dreamed of or imagined winning a medal in mixed doubles because it was never my cup of tea. I was really not very good at mixed doubles a few years ago. I was good in men's doubles, team events and singles, but mixed doubles was not my cup of tea,” Harmeet admitted. “We went without any expectations. We just wanted to try it out at first, and we got some good results early on,” he said. At their breakthrough tournament, the WTT Saudi Smash 2024, Harmeet and Yashaswini stunned the then world No. 6 Spanish pair of Alvaro Robles and Maria Xiao. The result gave their partnership a much-needed boost, helping them understand each other’s game and strengthening their resolve to improve. “I got to know what I needed to improve. My singles game has mostly been about attacking, and I had never really focused on counter-attacking, passive play or playing from a distance,” he said. <h2>Rejigging the style </h2> Having played close to the table for most of his career, 33-year-old Harmeet needed to rejig his game to complement Yashaswini’s attacking instincts. Over the last two years, he has developed a potent counter-attacking weapon that can unsettle any opponent. It was not an overnight transformation, though. “Changing my game style to counter-attacking, or moving away from the table to play from mid-distance, was not something that happened overnight. I have been trying to implement these changes for the last two years, and gradually, I started improving," Harmeet noted. “I would say that I am quite good at it. There is still room for improvement, but I am really good at pouncing when I get an opportunity. I now have a very lethal counter-attacking game, and my opponents are really scared of my counter-attack," he said. Going forward, Harmeet hopes to strengthen his counter-attacking game while helping Yashaswini further hone her receiving skills. “That will give us versatility and a lot of variation because both of us have weapons that can threaten our opponents,” Harmeet added. <h2>Deeply satisfying</h2> The medal now carries deep personal significance for Harmeet. He became a father in August, making the podium finish all the more special. “This medal is very, very special to me because I never thought I could win a medal at such a big event. It is really close to my heart. Another special thing about this medal is that it is my first Asian Championships since my baby boy was born just two months ago. He has been really lucky for me, and winning a medal at such a big event makes it even more special,” Harmeet said. The medal also augurs well for Indian table tennis. After <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/manush-shah-diya-chitale-stun-world-no-4-pair-seal-historic-asian-games-medal-in-table-tennis-article-156221115" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">Manush Shah and Diya Chitale</a> won mixed doubles bronze at the Asian Games, securing India’s third table tennis medal in a row at the Games, Harmeet and Yashaswini kept the country’s medal streak intact at the Asian Championships. It was India’s fourth consecutive medal at the continental event. Such consistency, Harmeet believes, will help Indian players shed the perception that they are “only good at the Commonwealth level." For Harmeet, the result offers both confidence and confirmation that Indian paddlers can compete with the best in the world. It has also brought the country a step closer to its Olympic ambitions. “It gives us a lot of confidence and shows all the players that we can do it. It definitely puts India on the global stage, where we can make an impact and cause bigger upsets. Our aim next time will be to change the colour of the medal at the Asian level and then win a medal at the Olympics,” Harmeet signed off.<meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

‘bhaiya, we can still make it happen’: how yashaswini ghorpade inspired hesitant harmeet desai to end india’s 72-year wait

Michael Holding, renowned cricketer and commentator, has not watched cricket since retiring in September 2021. He cites personal family issues and dissatisfaction with the sport's direction as reasons for his disengagement. Known as Whispering Death for his silent bowling style, Holding transitioned to a vocal commentary career, influenced by legends like Richie Benaud. While he misses the camaraderie of his colleagues, he does not miss the game itself and firmly states he will not return to commentary, believing that retirement should be respected to preserve one's legacy.

​There is a fitting symmetry to Holding’s journey. The bowler once announced himself without a sound; the commentator later commanded attention without ever needing to raise his voice​

Sajal K Patra

TN Sports Desk

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‘Why Bother...?’: Michael Holding Reveals Why Cricket Lost Him—And Why He Will Never Return | EXCLUSIVE

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Michael Holding, renowned for his silent prowess as a fast bowler and articulate commentary, has chosen to step back from cricket entirely. In a recent interview, he shared that personal family circumstances, dissatisfaction with the game's direction, and a long career contributed to his retirement in 2021. He no longer watches cricket, particularly due to the struggles of the West Indies team. Holding expresses a fondness for his former colleagues but firmly states he has no plans to return to commentary or the sport.

Cricket

For more than half a century, cricket heard Michael Holding in two unforgettable ways—first through the near-silent approach that made “Whispering Death” one of the game’s most feared fast bowlers, and later through the measured voice that made him one of its clearest commentators. Today, the silence is deliberate. In an exclusive conversation with Sports Now, Holding explains why he no longer watches cricket, reveals that personal family circumstances influenced his retirement, reflects on what he misses most about broadcasting and firmly closes the door on ever returning to the commentary box. Excerpts of the interview below: Q) You have not watched any cricket since retiring in September 2021. Is it too much cricket or you are hurting somewhere? MH: Well, both of those reasons, plus I'll get into the third reason as well. Number one, I've been involved in cricket for a very, very long time. I started playing competitive cricket at about age 10. And then, of course, I became an international cricketer at age 21. Well, people might say I became an international cricketer at 19 because I played for Jamaica then. But I mean international outside the Caribbean. My first tour to Australia was at 21. And of course, almost immediately after retiring, I went into media. I became a radio commentator, then a television commentator. So I've been involved in cricket and talking or playing cricket for many, many years. I was working for 22 years after retirement. So that's a very long time. So, I've had a lot of cricket. Secondly, as you also intimated, I'm not really happy with the direction cricket has been going over the past few years. Before I retired, I wasn't happy with a lot of what I saw happening. And after retirement, I decided, well, the West Indies team isn't doing very well. I don't want to watch other teams if the West Indies aren't doing well. If your team is doing well, you are happy to watch other Test matches and other nations play, but you don't want to be watching your team when they are doing badly. And if I'm not watching my team, why bother to watch? So those situations just made me understand, or made me think to myself, there's no point. I can easily go to a cricket website and look at the scores of Test matches or other games I might be interested in. And I don't really have to sit down and watch anything. So that's the reason why I'm no longer really watching cricket. Q) You were called Whispering Death because batters barely heard you approaching. Yet a second career was built on your voice. Which is closer to the real Michael Holding: the silent force or the man who refuses to remain silent? MH: (Laughs) Well, both at different times in life. When you go through life, you go through different phases. As you said, I was called Whispering Death as a cricketer, but it had nothing to do with whether I talked or not. It was all to do with my run-up that the umpire said they couldn't hear me coming. But even so, when I was playing the game, I didn't do a lot of talking. You see people on the cricket field doing a lot of talking and sledging as they call it. I didn't get involved in that. I made sure that I spoke to my opponents or anyone else off the field. I had very good friends. I made some great friendships playing the game. But even so, on the field, they were not my friends. They were in the opposition. So I had no reason to talk to them unless there was some little joke I had to pass by one of them. After I stopped playing, I got involved in commentary. You have to talk as a commentator. And you have to think deeply about what you are saying and how the game is being played and how you're going to portray this to the people at home. Richie Benaud taught me that. I did quite a bit of work with Channel Nine early in my career. And I admired the man. I admired the way he did his commentary. I admired the way he carried himself. <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/cricket/sachin-better-than-kohli-michael-holding-delivers-verdict-on-ab-debate-brings-dhoni-into-the-conversation-exclusive-article-156179954" data-type="tilCustomLink">READ: Sachin Better Than Kohli: Holding</a> And so I spent as much time as possible around him and learned from him, listened to him talk. One thing he said to me was, 'Mikey, you have got to make people at home who are watching the screen and watching cricket, perhaps even for the first time, understand exactly what's happening on the field.' Not that you are telling them everything because he says you don't state the obvious. If somebody drives a ball through the offside, you don't say, 'Oh, that was a good shot through the offside. The people are seeing it.' What you might then say on top of the pictures that the people are seeing is why it was a good shot or why it was a bad delivery or why it was not a very successful drive, and it went to a fielder. That sort of a thing. Be a bit more in-depth. So there's more talking. There's more involvement. There's more deeper thought into what's going on the field. So, in the two different phases of my life, I had to adapt in two different ways. Q) But why did you choose to retire? We can see you can still speak as well as anybody. And we miss you behind the microphone. MH: Why I retired is a little bit personal. I have some personal issues. These are family matters. A few people don't know. People at Sky obviously know why I retired. And some of my friends and other folks don't know. And eventually, it's getting out to exactly what influenced my retirement. But it wasn't only because I was tired of the game. Because I love the people that I worked with. I love the people at Sky in the commentary box and in the control room. Cameramen. I enjoyed being around them. I still keep in contact with a lot of the guys. <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/sports/cricket/bumrah-proved-me-totally-wrong-holding-backs-roberts-ultimate-fast-bowling-compliment-exclusive-article-156209397" data-type="tilCustomLink">ALSO READ: Bumrah Proved Me Totally Wrong: Holding</a> I love the people that I work with down in South Africa at Supersport. Again, same thing in the commentary box. Cameramen. People in the control room. That I enjoyed. And that, to be honest, I miss greatly. I don't miss the game as much as people might think as I should. But that aspect of it, I miss a lot. But life goes on. You have to make your adjustments. You have to do things depending on what's happening in your life. Q) Do you ever plan to make a comeback? MH: No. I'm not getting younger. I'm getting older. And I don't believe in coming out of retirement. I see so many sports people, men and women, doing that. And they spoil their legacies when they do that. So I don't intend to do that. Or even try.<meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

‘why bother...?’: michael holding reveals why cricket lost him—and why he will never return | exclusive

Times Now Digital

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) plans to introduce Open Book Assessments (OBAs) for Class 9 starting in the 2026-27 academic year. This approach aims to shift focus from rote memorization to understanding and applying knowledge. While OBAs may reduce memorization, they require deeper thinking and problem-solving skills. Successful implementation depends on well-designed questions, teacher training, and clear evaluation criteria. Experts believe that while OBAs could alleviate some exam anxiety, they may also introduce new challenges. Ultimately, the effectiveness of this change hinges on how well schools prepare students and teachers for this new assessment format.

CBSE&#39;s proposed open-book exams aim to move beyond rote learning

Lakshima Sareen

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What Are CBSE’s Proposed Open-Book Exams And How Could They Change The Way Students Prepare?

CBSE's proposed open-book exams aim to move beyond rote learning

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Education

For many students, exam preparation has long revolved around memorising textbook content and reproducing it on answer sheets. The Central Board of Secondary Education’s (CBSE) proposed Open Book Assessments (OBAs) for Class 9 could challenge that approach by placing greater emphasis on understanding concepts and applying knowledge. But being allowed to consult a textbook does not necessarily make an examination easier. Students may have less to memorise word for word, but more to think through. Approved by the <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/education/cbse-class-12-special-exam-datesheet-2026-released-for-west-asia-exams-from-october-23-article-156305046" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">CBSE</a> Governing Body in June 2025, the proposal envisages introducing OBAs from the 2026–27 academic session. However, the board’s published scheme of studies for the session does not set out a detailed OBA framework, leaving questions about how the proposed format will be implemented in practice. The proposal comes amid wider <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/opinion/india/six-years-of-nep-a-policy-built-for-a-world-that-changed-underneath-it-article-155205618" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">changes to school education</a>, including curriculum revisions and changes to assessment patterns. For students, parents and teachers, the central question is whether open-book assessments can make learning more meaningful without creating new academic pressures. What has CBSE proposed? The proposal was approved at the CBSE Governing Body’s 141st meeting on June 25, 2025. It envisages integrating Open Book Assessments into three pen-and-paper assessments per term for Class 9, covering Language, Mathematics, Science and Social Science. The idea is to assess more than a student’s ability to recall information. Depending on how questions are framed, students could be asked to interpret information, connect concepts, analyse a situation or apply what they have learnt to an unfamiliar problem. The approach is aligned with the broader push towards competency-based learning under the <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/education/ncert-textbooks-now-include-north-easts-history-culture-and-heritage-centre-tells-rajya-sabha-article-155322693" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">National Curriculum Framework for School Education (NCF-SE) 2023</a>. It would require changes not only to question papers but also to classroom teaching and examination preparation. Anju Soni, Principal of Shiv Nadar School, Noida, believes the approach could change the purpose of assessment. “Open Book Assessment, if implemented in spirit, can fundamentally shift the focus from ‘what to remember’ to ‘how to apply, analyse and evaluate’,” she told Times Now Digital. Soni says the format could encourage students to read beyond textbooks, make connections between ideas and develop stronger reasoning skills. However, whether these benefits materialise will depend on the quality of questions and how students’ answers are evaluated. Open-book exams are not necessarily easier Allowing students to refer to learning materials may reduce the need to memorise every detail, but it does not remove the need to understand the subject. Questions that require students to apply concepts to unfamiliar situations could prove more demanding than conventional questions based on recall. Tuhinkanti Dey, PGT Chemistry at VidyaGyan School, Sitapur, cautions against assuming that open-book exams are easier than traditional assessments. “Many people mistakenly think that ‘open book’ means ‘easy.’ This is often untrue. A well-designed OBA is typically more difficult than a traditional assessment because the open book only provides students with factual information. Students are responsible for using their reasoning abilities to solve problems,” Dey told Times Now Digital. She explains that a science question might present experimental results showing that the measured mass of products is lower than that of the reactants. Students would need to consider possible explanations, such as gas escaping during the experiment, and apply their understanding of the conservation of mass. The distinction lies in the question itself. As Dey puts it, “If a student can simply copy a section of the textbook to answer a question, then the question was poorly written.” For students accustomed to preparing model answers, this could mean changing how they study. Understanding concepts, making connections between topics and practising their application would become particularly important. Students would also need to learn how to navigate reference materials efficiently and manage their time during an examination. How do open-book assessments work internationally? Open-book examinations are not entirely new. They have been trialled in some international examination settings, although formats vary across subjects and curricula. The <a href="https://www.timesnownews.com/education/many-parents-see-cbse-as-ordinary-ib-and-cambridge-as-status-symbols-noida-principal-on-prestige-race-behind-board-choices-article-154443261" data-type="tilCustomLink" target="_blank">International Baccalaureate (IB)</a> conducted a multi-year open-book examination pilot involving around 270 schools worldwide, covering selected Diploma Programme subjects such as Literature, Economics and Psychology. The pilot ran from November 2023 to May 2025, with a final retake opportunity in November 2025. It explored whether access to permitted resources could support assessments focused on application, analysis and evaluation. Cambridge International also allows open-text examinations in certain subjects, with specific rules governing permitted texts and annotations. However, neither approach means that all examinations across these curricula are open-book. For CBSE, the challenge will be to translate the idea into an assessment format that tests students’ understanding and application of concepts, rather than their ability to find answers in a textbook. Can teachers adapt to the new format? The proposed shift will depend heavily on teachers’ ability to frame questions that test understanding rather than reward students for locating information. Classroom lessons built largely around notes and memorisation may not adequately prepare students for assessments that require interpretation, reasoning and independent thinking. Bharathi Lakshmi, Principal of Hindustan International School, Chennai, says assessment should focus on whether students can use what they have learnt. “The central question should therefore shift from ‘Can the student remember the information?’ to ‘Does the student understand the information and know how to apply it meaningfully?’” she said. For this to happen, teachers would need training, sample question papers and clear marking criteria. Schools would also need guidance on which reference materials students could use, how much time they would receive and how answers would be evaluated. Without these safeguards, the same assessment could be interpreted and implemented differently across schools. The IB’s experience also points to the importance of preparation before formal assessments. Its open-book examination guidance highlights the need for classroom practice with reference materials and questions that require higher-order thinking. For CBSE, this would mean ensuring that students encounter application-based questions during regular lessons, rather than first encountering the format in an examination. Will open-book exams ease exam anxiety? Beyond changes to teaching and assessment, the proposed format could require students to rethink how they prepare for examinations. Geetika Gulati, Head of Counseling and Wellbeing at Shiv Nadar School, Noida, says open-book assessments could help students who find recall challenging demonstrate their understanding more effectively. However, those accustomed to conventional exams may need time and guidance to adapt. “Some may need guidance on using resources efficiently, managing time and preparing appropriately,” Gulati said, adding that practice papers, time-management strategies and reassurance from teachers and parents could help students build confidence. Dr Anil Kumar Choubey, PGT Psychology and Student Counsellor at Vidyagyan School, Bulandshahr, also cautions that the transition could initially create anxiety among students accustomed to traditional examination patterns. He believes schools should prepare students gradually through regular practice, while parents should encourage conceptual understanding rather than put pressure on children to achieve high marks through rote memorisation. Antra Chouksey, Education Development Manager at Macro Vision Academy, says open-book assessments may reduce the fear of forgetting information, but they will not automatically eliminate examination anxiety. Students accustomed to memorising answers may initially struggle with questions that require them to interpret information, connect concepts and apply their understanding to unfamiliar situations. “It is also important to recognise that examination anxiety stems not only from the fear of forgetting, but also from the pressure to score, the fear of making mistakes and the expectation of uniform performance,” Chouksey said. She emphasised that simply changing the examination format would not address these concerns. Students would need opportunities to practise application-based questions, understand what is expected of them and receive constructive feedback before being assessed under the new format. They would also need to learn how to identify relevant information and use reference materials efficiently within the time available. For parents, this would mean encouraging children to explain concepts in their own words, ask questions and learn from mistakes, rather than focusing exclusively on marks. Schools, meanwhile, would need to introduce the format gradually and ensure that students are not expected to adapt without adequate preparation. The broader challenge, therefore, is to ensure that a change in assessment does not simply replace the pressure to memorise with the pressure to apply knowledge. Could open-book assessments create new challenges? While open-book assessments could encourage deeper learning, their success will depend on well-designed questions and consistent implementation. Poorly framed questions could turn exams into searches for textbook passages, while gaps in teacher training and unclear evaluation criteria could lead to uneven outcomes. Tuhinkanti Dey cautions that access to reference materials cannot make up for gaps in subject knowledge. “An open book can hurt students who do not have prior knowledge of the content. Students who have not mastered the material will likely spend most of the allotted time searching for answers in the textbook,” she said. Students would still need to study regularly and practise applying concepts, while schools would need to provide sample papers, train teachers and establish clear evaluation guidelines. Anju Soni believes the benefits could extend beyond school. “If students learn early to use knowledge as a tool rather than treat it as content to be reproduced, it will serve them well beyond examinations, in university, in careers, and as informed citizens,” she said. Ultimately, the proposal’s success will depend on whether schools can prepare teachers and students adequately and turn the promise of learning beyond memorisation into classroom reality.<meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

what are cbse’s proposed open-book exams and how could they change the way students prepare?

Infertility affects about one in six people globally, yet it is often stigmatized and misunderstood. Both partners should be evaluated, as male factors contribute to nearly half of infertility cases. Early signs include irregular periods and pelvic pain, while lifestyle choices like poor diet and smoking can impact fertility. Myths, such as infertility being solely a woman's issue, need to be challenged. Couples are encouraged to communicate openly and seek medical advice together. Understanding that infertility is a shared health concern can help maintain relationships during this challenging time.

Top doctors on infertility

Akanksha Arora

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Live Chat With Top Doctors: Infertility Myths, Warning Signs And Treatment Options Explained

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Simran Sukhnani

Infertility is often surrounded by stigma, misinformation and questions that couples may hesitate to ask. From lifestyle choices and age-related changes to underlying medical conditions and male fertility, several factors can influence the ability to conceive. But what are the early signs to watch for, which common beliefs are myths, and when should you seek help? Leading fertility specialists answer your most pressing questions. <ul><li>Dr Shailly Kapur, Senior Consultant - Obstetrics &amp; Gynaecology, Gurugram</li><li>Dr Gaana Sreenivas, Obstetrician &amp; Gynecologist, Bone and Birth Clinic and Rainbow Hospital, Bengaluru </li><li>Dr Meghana P, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic Surgeon and Fertility Specialist, Astra Nector Mother and Child Hospital, Bengaluru</li><li>Dr Richa Pal, Consultant Gynaecologist, Laparoscopic Surgeon and Fertility Specialist, Manipal Hospital</li><li>Dr Hrishikesh Pai, Gynaecologist and IVF Specialist; Medical Director, Bloom IVF Group</li><li>Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, Gynaecologist and IVF Expert, Nurture Clinic, New Delhi</li><li>Dr Rahul Manchanda, Senior Consultant and Head, Gynae Endoscopy Division, PSRI Hospital</li><li>Dr Sunita Samal, Consultant - Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Robotic Surgery, Apollo Women’s Hospitals, Chennai</li><li>Dr Jasmine Kaur Dahiya, Clinical Director and Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Jalandhar, Punjab</li><li>Dr Nayana D H, Consultant - IVF, Aster Women and Children, Bengaluru</li><li>Dr Vidya Shetty, HOD, Obstetrician &amp; Gynaecologist, KIMS Hospital, Mumbai</li><li>Dr Sunita Arora, Senior Gynaecologist and IVF Specialist, Fortis La Femme, New Delhi</li></ul> Q. How common is infertility, and why is it important to consider both partners when a couple is unable to conceive? Infertility is a common reproductive health concern, yet the conversation around it often focuses disproportionately on women. The World Health Organization estimates that around one in six people globally experience infertility during their lifetime. However, difficulty conceiving can arise from factors affecting either partner or both. "Male factors contribute to around half of all infertility cases, either alone or together with a female factor,” said Dr Hrishikesh. Dr Archana further adds that both partners should be evaluated rather than placing the entire burden of diagnosis and treatment on women. Assessing both early can help identify the underlying cause, avoid unnecessary investigations and guide appropriate treatment. Q. Are there early signs or fertility markers that could indicate a problem, and when should you consult a specialist? Infertility does not always cause noticeable symptoms, and many people discover an underlying issue only when they start trying to conceive. Irregular or absent periods, unusually painful menstruation, pelvic pain and a history of reproductive infections may indicate a need for evaluation. In men, fertility problems can also remain unnoticed, making medical assessment important for both partners. Dr Sunita explains, "Very irregular periods or extremely painful periods are warning signs. So are heavy bleeding and long gaps between cycles." Doctors may recommend hormone tests, a pelvic ultrasound and an assessment of ovarian reserve. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) can provide information about egg reserve, but it cannot independently predict natural conception. Dr Jasmine stressed that no single test can confirm fertility. Couples should seek evaluation after 12 months of trying if the woman is under 35, or after six months if she is 35 or older. Earlier assessment may be needed if symptoms or known risk factors are present. Q. I have regular periods but am still unable to conceive. What could be the underlying reasons? Regular periods often suggest ovulation, but they do not guarantee that every aspect of fertility is normal. Blocked fallopian tubes, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, age-related changes in egg quality and sperm-related problems can all affect conception. “Regular periods often suggest ovulation, but they do not guarantee that conception will occur,” said Dr Vidya. Dr Shailly Kapur added that both partners should be evaluated, as fertility difficulties can have multiple causes, sometimes with no clear explanation. Q. How can modern lifestyle affect fertility, and which everyday habits could make conception more difficult? Everyday habits, including poor sleep, chronic stress, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and unhealthy eating, can affect reproductive health. Long working hours, irregular meals and sedentary routines may also make it harder to maintain habits that support fertility. Dr Gaana notes that significant weight fluctuations can disrupt ovulation, while obesity, smoking and alcohol may affect sperm quality in men. Dr Rahul said the above mentioned habits can affect menstrual regularity in women and sperm production and quality in men. Dr Shailly added that excessive caffeine intake and exposure to certain environmental chemicals may also play a role. However, lifestyle is only one factor, and infertility should not automatically be blamed on personal habits. Q. If I maintain a healthy lifestyle, what medical, genetic or environmental factors could still affect my fertility? A healthy lifestyle cannot eliminate every factor that affects fertility. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, thyroid disorders and diabetes can affect ovulation, while previous pelvic infections or surgeries may damage the fallopian tubes. Dr Nayana highlighted that genetic conditions can also affect reproductive health. Dr Rahul noted that environmental exposures, including pesticides, heavy metals and occupational hazards, may affect egg and sperm quality. Age is another important factor, as egg quantity and quality decline over time. A medical evaluation can help identify potential causes even when someone follows healthy habits. Q. I'm overweight and planning a pregnancy. How much can my weight influence fertility, and what should I aim for before trying to conceive? Excess weight can affect hormonal balance and insulin sensitivity, potentially disrupting ovulation, particularly in women with PCOS. However, being overweight does not automatically mean you will struggle to conceive, and fertility depends on several factors. Dr Meghana explained that gradual, sustainable weight management can support reproductive health. Dr Nayana also highlighted the link between weight and fertility. Rather than aiming for a particular number on the scale, focus on balanced meals, regular physical activity and managing underlying conditions. A gynaecologist can help set an appropriate, individualised goal before pregnancy. Q. Can restrictive diets such as keto or OMAD affect hormones, ovulation and the chances of conceiving? Restrictive diets such as keto and OMAD (one meal a day) may affect fertility if they lead to inadequate calorie intake, rapid weight loss or nutritional deficiencies. The impact depends on how the diet is followed and whether the body receives enough energy and essential nutrients. Dr Sunita cautioned that very low calorie intake and prolonged fasting can disrupt the hormonal signals that regulate ovulation. Dr Richa emphasised that the key concern is whether a diet provides enough energy, protein, healthy fats, vitamins and minerals. A ketogenic diet is not automatically harmful to fertility, and evidence on OMAD specifically remains limited. Women planning pregnancy should prioritise balanced nutrition over rapid weight loss and consult a doctor or dietitian before starting a restrictive eating plan. Q. Can intense or frequent exercise affect fertility, and how can you tell if someone is overdoing it? Regular exercise supports overall health, but excessive training combined with inadequate calorie intake can disrupt the hormones responsible for ovulation, potentially leading to irregular or missed periods. Dr Nayana highlighted that warning signs include persistent fatigue, declining workout performance, recurrent injuries and poor recovery. Dr Archana emphasised the importance of balancing exercise with adequate nutrition and rest. Women trying to conceive do not need to stop working out, but should adjust their routine if menstrual changes occur and consult a doctor for assessment. Q. How can smoking and alcohol consumption affect fertility in both women and men? Smoking can affect fertility in both partners. In women, it is associated with reduced ovarian reserve and poorer egg quality, while in men, it can lower sperm count and motility and damage sperm DNA. Dr Nayana highlighted that excessive alcohol consumption can also disrupt reproductive hormones and affect ovulation. Dr Hrishikesh noted that heavy drinking may reduce testosterone levels, impair sperm production and contribute to sexual dysfunction. Couples planning pregnancy should avoid smoking and women should avoid alcohol while trying to conceive. Men should also avoid excessive drinking to support reproductive health. Q. Can regular use of painkillers such as ibuprofen or naproxen affect fertility when trying to conceive? Regular use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen, may temporarily interfere with ovulation in some women, particularly when taken around the time an egg is released. Dr Sunita explained that these medicines may prevent the ovarian follicle from rupturing, delaying or disrupting egg release. Dr Richa noted that the effects depend on the dose, timing and duration of use, while evidence on male fertility remains limited. Occasional use does not automatically cause infertility. If you regularly need these medicines while trying to conceive, discuss their use with your doctor and do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice. Q. Can having multiple abortions affect future fertility? Is there a medically safe number of abortions? A safe abortion performed by a qualified healthcare provider generally does not affect future fertility. There is no universally defined maximum number of abortions considered medically safe for everyone, risks depend on the procedure and individual circumstances. Dr Rahul explained that complications such as untreated infections or injury to the uterus can sometimes affect future conception. Dr Archana also highlighted the importance of medically supervised care. Repeated abortions do not automatically cause infertility. Anyone concerned about their reproductive health after an abortion should consult a gynaecologist, particularly if complications occurred. Q. Can menstrual cups, tampons or hair removal products such as shaving creams affect fertility? Menstrual cups and tampons, when used correctly, are not known to cause infertility. Similarly, shaving creams used externally do not affect ovulation or reproductive organs, although they may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Dr Richa explained that poor menstrual hygiene, including improper cleaning of reusable cups or leaving tampons in for longer than recommended, can increase the risk of infection. If an infection spreads to the reproductive tract, it may affect fertility. Following product instructions, maintaining hygiene and seeking medical advice for persistent irritation or unusual discharge are sensible precautions. Q. If I have an autoimmune condition or have undergone cancer treatment, how could it affect my fertility? Certain autoimmune conditions can affect reproductive health through inflammation, hormonal changes or complications involving reproductive organs. Also, some medications which are used to manage these conditions may also influence pregnancy planning. Dr Rahul explained that cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can damage eggs, sperm or reproductive organs, sometimes affecting fertility permanently. Dr Archana emphasised discussing fertility preservation before treatment begins. Options may include freezing eggs, sperm or embryos, depending on individual circumstances. Anyone planning a pregnancy after treatment should consult their specialist and a fertility doctor, without stopping prescribed medication independently. Q. What are the most common myths about infertility, and which misconceptions need to be challenged? One of the most damaging myths is that infertility is always a woman's problem. Male factors contribute to a substantial proportion of cases, either independently or alongside female factors. "Fertility is a couple’s function," said Dr Meghana, adding that both partners should be investigated rather than placing the burden on women. Another misconception is that regular periods guarantee fertility. Dr Rahul stressed that infertility is a medical concern, not a personal failure, and that blame and stigma can delay diagnosis and treatment. A third myth is that stress or “not relaxing enough” is the reason a couple cannot conceive. As Dr Meghana pointed out, infertility can have several medical causes, including endometriosis, blocked fallopian tubes and sperm-related problems; sometimes, no clear cause is found. The key message is that infertility is not a personal failure, curse or punishment. Both partners deserve a proper medical evaluation, and treatment should be guided by a diagnosis rather than assumptions or unproven remedies. Q. My husband feels uncomfortable getting his fertility checked. How can I encourage him to seek medical advice without making him feel blamed? Approach the conversation as a shared goal rather than an attempt to identify who is responsible. Dr Rahul recommends focusing on finding solutions together, not pointing fingers. You could suggest that both partners get evaluated, explaining that a semen analysis is a routine, non-surgical first step. Dr Meghana also emphasised that infertility is not a reflection of a person’s worth or masculinity. Offering to attend the consultation together can help reduce anxiety and make the process feel less intimidating. Q. What can couples do to navigate infertility without letting it take a toll on their relationship? Fertility challenges can be very emotionally draining, making open communication and mutual support essential. Dr Meghana emphasised that infertility is not a reflection of a person's worth, character or lifestyle choices. Dr Rahul advised couples to approach fertility as a shared health concern, rather than focusing on who may be responsible. Seeking professional guidance can help couples understand possible causes, explore suitable treatment options and set realistic expectations. Being patient with each other, discussing concerns honestly and seeking emotional support when needed can help couples navigate uncertainty without allowing the process to become a source of blame or strain on their relationship.<meta content="cms.next" name="cmsei" />

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