As the nation celebrates Men’s Health Month, it’s vital that we examine one area of male health that’s often overlooked: male-factor fertility.
Around one in six people worldwide are struggling with fertility issues, and we know that male factors contribute to about one-third of cases. But what is male infertility? Who can help? And how can labor organizations spur a conversation that encourages men to take control of their fertility health?
Let’s get into it.
Male-factor fertility: the essentials
Male-factor fertility refers to fertility issues attributed to male reproductive factors, such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility (ability to move), abnormal sperm, hormonal imbalances, genetic disorders, or reproductive structural abnormalities. These factors contribute significantly to fertility issues, making it essential to address male fertility as part of a comprehensive healthcare discussion.
Specialized doctors in your corner
When your vehicle needs work, you see a mechanic. When you chip a tooth, you’re off to see the dentist. Male fertility has its specialists, too.
Reproductive urologists are physicians who focus on diagnosing and treating reproductive health issues in males. They help with assessing male fertility, identifying underlying causes, and implementing tailored treatment plans. They use advanced techniques to evaluate male fertility and pinpoint specific contributing factors (like lifestyle, sleep, and diet). These RUs also offer medical interventions to correct hormonal imbalances, surgical procedures to address structural issues, and assisted reproductive technologies to help patients realize their family building goals.
How labor unions can help their members
Your members are busy, there’s no getting around it. Taking time to consider fertility doesn’t always make the calendar, even when the goal to create a family is there. There’s also some stigma associated with male fertility, which can make it difficult to approach the subject.
Organizations can keep the issue top of mind for members and break up that uncomfortable silence by owning the conversation. Bringing up the topic of male fertility within a labor setting in the same way you discuss other health concerns can contribute to a culture of awareness and support that extends well beyond June.
Here are some tips for initiating conversations with your members:
- Share articles, brochures, or webinars to raise awareness and highlight the support men have available to them. Progyny has a great resource – Male Fertility 101: What You Didn’t Learn in Sex-Ed – that covers everything a man might need to know about male-factor fertility, associated symptoms, and treatment options.
- Share common resources. Your members have access to organizations like RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association or the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). These specialized organizations are a great resource for reliable fertility and family building information, support groups, and educational materials.
- Boost your health-based programming. When hosting wellness seminars or workshops, bring male fertility into the fold. Encourage open discussions on reproductive health to create a safe environment where members can ask questions or seek guidance.
By understanding the nature of male-factor fertility, providing helpful resources, and fostering open discussion about the issue, labor can take the lead in busting stigmas, empowering members to take control of their health, and growing healthier families.
Interested in learning more? Contact us: Stacey Hofert, Stacey.Hofert@progyny.com 847-372-9959 or Ron Abrahall, RN Ronald.Abrahall@progyny.com 631-294-2012
Ron Abrahall has held both elected and appointed union positions since 1982. He has served as a representative for the New York State Nurses Association, a former president of USW 9544, past President of BMFNHP AFT/ NYSUT, NYPD officer and a Neuro-Surgical Intensive Care RN.
