Sub-fertility and its psychological impact on men

Abstract

Infertility affects an estimated 15% of couples attempting to conceive. Of these couples, male factor etiology is thought to play a part in 50% of cases. While practitioners strive to provide comprehensive care to these men, the psychologic impact of subfertility on individuals has not traditionally been addressed, and there is a dearth of data on the subject, particularly in regards to the experience of men. At our institution, men presenting for an infertility evaluation are routinely administered a survey assessing their psychological well-being and concerns at their initial visit. This study aims to assess the results of these surveys as a means to quantify the psychological impact of sub-fertility on men. This single-center prospective study utilized a questionnaire containing both narrative questions and a Likert survey to probe several psychological and emotional domains relevant to the their impact of sub-fertility on males. Specifically, the effects of sub-fertility on mood, martial relations and sexual experience were assessed. The Likert survey was utilized to better characterize patient’s abilities to cope with sub-fertility as well as the desire for additional resources in regards to its impact. Data were analyzed using SPSS v24. One hundred sixty-four men completed the questionnaire. Of those, 83 men (51.6%) reported a negative effect on mood, 40 (24.8%) reported a negative effect on their relationship and 40 (24.8%) described a negative effect on their sexual experience. Approximately one third of men (34.6%) doubted their ability to manage the emotional impact of this pathology. Lastly, around one-fourth of men (25.7%) requested additional resources to aid in coping with these psychological impacts. Sub-fertility has a significant impact on the emotional and psychological well-being of men who presented to our infertility clinic. As indicated above, one in four men feel the need for additional resources or treatment to address the psychological impact of this pathology. When encountered in clinic, these particular individuals are provided pamphlets and/or appropriate referrals when indicated. While the medical management of infertility remains paramount, it is important to consider the emotional toll this pathology has on patients and possible need for further resources.