It’s widely recognised that men receive significantly less support during fertility challenges compared to women. Research shows that men are aware of this gap and often wish there were more resources available to them.
A study conducted in collaboration with Fertility Network UK revealed that men often feel excluded and marginalised, as most of the attention tends to focus on their female partner. Many men also reported feeling a lack of sensitivity from clinical staff and perceived a shortage of emotional support services from healthcare professionals and fertility clinics.
Though this report dates back to 2017, the issue remains a long-standing one, likely still relevant today.
Fortunately, things are improving, and more resources for men are emerging. Men are encouraged to take ownership of both their fertility and mental health, but it’s also essential to know where to seek support.
Below follow some thoughts and resources for men navigating fertility challenges. It’s not exhaustive but a good starting point.
Testhim
Testhim is dedicated to bringing positive change in male fertility through awareness, education, support, and testing. They offer a free questionnaire that helps men assess their overall health and fertility. By answering a few simple questions, men can identify how their health history, work habits, lifestyle, and diet may impact their fertility. The questionnaire provides instant health recommendations and flags any areas that may require further investigation.
Testhim’s website also provides a wealth of knowledge through blogs and articles, with contributions from experts like Jonathan Ramsay, Sheryl Homa, and Melanie Brown.
Additionally, they host an award-winning podcast where men can gain insights from fertility experts. Testhim offers a variety of products and services, including supplements, consultations, testicular scans, and specialized underwear.
Charities
Charities are an excellent source of information and free support, often offering fact sheets, online support groups, helplines, webinars, and more. While many have traditionally focused on women, they are becoming more inclusive and recognising the diverse ways families are created.
Some charities to consider:
- Fertility Network UK
- The Worst Girl Gang Ever Foundation
- The Fertility Alliance
- Fertility Action Network
- SANDS
- Tommy’s
- Swimmers
- Chana (Jewish charity)
These organisations provide valuable resources not to be overlooked.
Podcasts
Men often prefer consuming information in different ways than women. While women might turn to written resources, men are generally more likely to listen to or speak with professionals. Podcasts offer a great way to access information, and there’s a growing library of fertility-related podcasts, though many are still female-focused.
A few recommended podcasts:
- The Testhim Podcast
- The Male Fertility Podcast
- The Fertility Podcast
- Big Fat Negative
- Don’t tell me to relax
Support Groups
Support groups provide unique assistance, and since the pandemic, virtual meet-ups have become more widely accepted allowing a level of flexibility and anonymity. These groups allow men or couples to connect with others facing similar challenges. Fertility struggles can feel isolating, but meeting others in the same boat can provide much-needed relief and an opportunity to learn from shared experiences.
Many charities offer online and in-person support groups, and there are groups specifically for men. It can also be helpful to look beyond fertility for men’s mental health groups, which, while not fertility-specific, can still be invaluable.
Some support groups to explore:
- Testhim Together Support Group
- HimFertility (via Fertility Network UK)
- Men WalkTalk
- Fertility Action Network
- Men’s Sheds
Social Media
Social media can be both a helpful tool and a potential rabbit hole of unverified or unhelpful advice. However, it also provides a supportive and knowledgeable community when following the right accounts. There are countless accounts to follow with a huge range of experiences and many individuals who openly share their fertility journeys.
Social platforms also offer live and recorded interviews with global experts, sometimes allowing anonymous participation. Just be sure to research the accounts you follow and seek professional advice when making decisions about your fertility.
Medical Support
Finding the right medical support is crucial. Men need to be proactive in researching their fertility options and professionals. Often, men are pushed toward treatments that focus solely on the woman, assuming that as long as the man produces sperm, that’s enough. However, there’s little emphasis on optimising sperm quality.
Men and couples should be aware of the limitations of fertility treatments especially when male factors are involved. It’s also essential to seek a second opinion if you feel the advice you’re getting isn’t right—ideally from a specialist in male fertility, such as an andrologist or urologist.
Learning about the best professionals to consult comes through research and communication, and resources like websites, podcasts, and support groups can be invaluable in this process.
Therapy, Counselling, and More
Many services are available that claim to offer the best fertility treatments, such as nutritional therapy, acupuncture, reflexology, supplements, and more. As always, do your research. Ensure that the person you’re consulting has the right qualifications and is part of a reputable professional body. While some people in this field may not be the best fit, others can offer tremendous support and expertise that benefit both your health and fertility.
While men may hesitate to access therapy or counselling, those who do often find it incredibly helpful. Infertility brings a complex range of emotions, and talking to a professional can help men better understand and express what they’re feeling.
What’s important is finding what feels right for you—whether that’s a personal trainer who understands fertility or a therapist. There’s no right or wrong; the key is finding support that works for you.
Summary
Infertility doesn’t have to feel isolating. Opening up about fertility challenges is difficult, especially for men, given the social stigma and lack of targeted support. However, taking the time to research and access support can positively impact your health, fertility, and relationships.
The most important step is reaching out and finding the right resources for you.