The psychological impact of male factor infertility and fertility treatment on men: a qualitative study

Abstract

This study investigated the subjective experiences of males attending a fertility treatment unit due to male factor infertility (MFI). In particular, the study aimed to explore how infertile males construe their infertility and how this impacts on their psychological well-being. In-depth interviews were conducted with nine males and analysed using grounded theory. Three inter-dependent themes were identified: (1) Impact to Self, (2) Social Impact and (3) Relationship and Support. The men initially felt shocked and ‘abnormal’ at their diagnosis and the possibility of a childless future. They felt their role in treatment was primarily supportive, which meant having to relinquish control and ‘put on a brave face’. Socially, MFI was regarded as a stigma, and disclosure to others was rare. Aspirations towards a male hegemonic culture intensified same. The theme ‘Relationship and Support’ describes how a supportive partnership mitigated the impact of diagnosis and influenced how well the men were able to both give and receive support from their partners and others, including professional support. It is proposed that these three themes interact and impact on psychological well-being, rendering them target areas for intervention by clinicians. All of the men expressed openness to psychological intervention, either alone or as a couple.

Keywords:

• male infertility
• psychological impact
• masculinity
• treatment