What Is The Psychological Impact of Male Infertility?
Male mental health is rarely talked about, although the man is 50% of the couple and experiencing the same potential hardship in the fertility journey. Should a man find out that he may be the causing factor despite his partner already having undergone testing or cycles, this may prove mentally difficult to him. It may be particularly challenging also to learn that there is no sperm at all, and surgery or other treatment may be required. Going through physical changes that may comprise hormonal changes and temporary imbalances may also affect the mental state of a person. This can lead to men having a feeling of inadequacy or experience low self-esteem or excess stress due to societal pressures related to fertility. Infertility can put a strain on relationships, leading to isolation and emotional distance, and many men struggle to discuss through problems of this nature with a partner. This in turn leads to social withdrawal. Psychological support should be readily available, to help relieve the emotional toll and to improve overall well-being.
How to Support Your Partner Through Fertility Struggles
Luckily, with the emerging field of Andrology and its growth, systems have been put in place to support men along their journey. Firstly, should a couple or individual notice a change in their wellbeing throughout treatment, this should always be discussed with the associated clinician. Groups have been introduced to share whatever a man is comfortable with and to talk about the potential burden, whilst highlighting that men are not alone in this situation. Support lines have been established by websites like fertilitynetworkuk.org, and a podcast for male fertility support has also been introduced by testhim.com. Gradually, more people are opening up about their own fertility journeys on a variety. of social media platforms. Seeing that some else is experiencing similar situations, or having had their own previous problems, and being able to relate/talk about this can sometimes help navigating the own circumstance. It may further help alleviate the feeling of being “alone”, or having no one to talk to with the issue.
Overall, male mental health can be impacted in couples that are struggling to conceive. Men should not, and do not have to go through this time on their own. While it seems more difficult to open up about any issues of this yet “taboo” topic to friends, colleagues and family, with the rhetoric that a man should deal with problems/situations alone, they should always be able to turn to or confide in their partner. A couple can support each other by attending appointments and consultations together, openly discussing their thoughts and feelings with each other, and take breaks along the journey where necessary. It may be worthwhile to also discuss whatever feels comfortable with one person of choice, potentially a close family member, or if these options are not possible, a therapist.
Contact Fertility Solutions to find out more.
