Men’s experiences of infertility: A metaethnographic systematic review.

Abstract

Infertility is recognized as a worldwide major health problem. Yet much of the research is focused on women, despite infertility impacting men and women equally. This review aimed to explore adult men's experiences of infertility (any type and any cause), as they have predominately been overlooked in reproductive research. A systematic literature search across five databases identified 15 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. A metaethnographic synthesis generated three metathemes, each with two subthemes: "Crippling Social Pressure" capturing the oppressive social, cultural, and masculine norms and expectations placed upon participants, "Emotional Rollercoaster" describing the emotional upheaval of infertility for participants, and "Holding onto Hope" highlighting how participants try to make sense of their experiences and cope with their infertility journey. The findings have important clinical implications, especially in the health care setting, where there is a need for a gendered approach in all aspects of infertility diagnosis and treatment. The inclusion of men would have a significant impact on their emotional well-being. Tackling the stigma and widely held masculine norms would encourage health care professionals to be more compassionate and break down barriers for men to seek support. Without such changes, men are at risk of continuing to experience their emotional rollercoaster on their own.