Ana Oliveira Pereira, Bola Grace, Sandra Greenbank
Introduction
In this chapter we focus on the importance of knowledge and prevention. We will explore different aspects such as how to inform patients correctly about the fertility treatment they are receiving, fertility awareness, nutrition, and the need to better engage men in fertility discussions.
Informing patients about our recommendations at every stage in their journey is crucial for patients and fertility staff alike. The manner in which we inform them will govern the support we give our patients. It will also show them just how much we care. Fertility awareness is also vital for patients as it encompasses individual and non-individual risk factors, as well as the awareness of sociocultural needs. This chapter will then focus on information trends, delayed childbearing, low fertility awareness among people of reproductive age and on concerted efforts to improve knowledge. Clinics will be given evidence-based recommendations on how to support patients on initial presentation. This chapter also summarises the importance of increased fertility awareness for patients with specific health conditions, such as cancer. We also explore the need to better engage men in fertility discussions. There is a disproportionately high focus on women since fertility is often perceived to be a ‘female health issue’. In addition, we discuss the importance of training for clinic staff as evidence has highlighted poor fertility awareness among healthcare professionals per se.
Nutrition is an important factor in the fertility process. It should be stressed that a healthy, balanced diet is key to maintaining good overall health. In this section, we provide clear recommendations for fertility clinics, emphasising the importance of discussing dietary and lifestyle advice with patients.