As a healthcare professional specialising in women's health, it's not uncommon for me to see couples walking into my office, filled with mixed emotions and anxiety. And as I introduce myself and begin the consultation, I can sense the apprehension in their voices as they share their most intimate concerns and vulnerabilities with me.
One topic that often comes up during these consultations is infertility. Unfortunately, the prevailing narrative surrounding infertility is that it's a woman's problem, and the age-old myth of the "biological clock" perpetuates this misconception. However, it's important to note that male infertility is just as prevalent and significant as female infertility. In fact, male-factor infertility (MFI) is identified in 30-50% of cases.
Unfortunately, the treatment of infertility often focuses solely on the female partner, even when the male partner is diagnosed with MFI. This can leave men feeling detached and uncertain about their role in the process, and can lead to emotional issues during and after fertility treatment.
Men with MFI often experience emotional challenges that can impact their daily lives during and after fertility treatment. This can include more sexual dysfunction during treatment and a higher likelihood of experiencing depressive symptoms if their partners require assisted reproductive treatment like in-vitro fertilization. Long treatment periods can also worsen their mental health. The pain of unsuccessful family-building attempts can also linger long after the couple has stopped trying. It's important for both partners to support each other emotionally during this challenging time.
Men with MFI may also experience significant stress when disclosing their fertility issues to their social network. There is a certain level of stigma attached to infertility. Many men feel ashamed and emasculated by their inability to conceive, and they may be reluctant to seek help. This is especially true in cultures where the man is expected to carry the mantle of leadership in the family. And this stigma can lead to late detection of male infertility, which ultimately reduces the chances of a couple to conceive.
However, the reality is that male infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which are beyond a man's control. It can be genetic, or it can be the result of an illness, injury, or environmental factors. And certain lifestyle choices such as excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and the use of steroids can also impact male fertility.
The good news is that there are many treatments available for male infertility, including medication, surgery, and assisted reproductive techniques such as sperm retrieval and in vitro fertilization (IVF). However, to increase the uptake of these treatments, we need to break down the stigma surrounding male infertility and create a safe and supportive environment for men to seek help.
We need to start by acknowledging the significant prevalence of male infertility and talking about it more openly. By encouraging men to talk honestly about their experiences and dispelling the myths and stereotypes that surround male infertility, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society. And ultimately, by breaking down the stigma surrounding male infertility, we can help men to feel less alone and more supported in their journey towards parenthood.
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