June is known for sun, family vacations, and of course Father’s Day. However, Father’s Day can be difficult for men who long to be a father but are unable to, especially for those with a male-factor infertility diagnosis.
Men who struggle with infertility typically describe it as:
“Isolating”
“Shameful”
“Discouraging”
While these emotions are often felt deeply and seem impossible to overcome, it does not have to feel that way forever.
Here are three ways to overcome those negative feelings so men with infertility can find joy on Father’s Day and every day.
1. Accept Support
Infertility can feel isolating, but there is community right outside your door! Thousands of men are on the same journey and are there to offer support. Find a network of male infertility support groups near you. Alternatively, plug into other forms of community such as hanging out with old friends, connecting with your spouse, or meeting with a therapist.
Help is out there. It just takes courage to accept it.
2. Seek Education
Sometimes just being more informed about an issue can relieve some of the doubts or fears about infertility. Did you know that 15% of couples in the United States have trouble conceiving, and over 50% of the time, there is a male infertility issue? Common causes are a low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal morphology.
What can be done to prevent male infertility? Medical professionals commonly suggest:
- Avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and drugs
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and other toxins
- Reducing stress
Overall, struggling with infertility should not be a source of shame. No one expects to encounter these difficulties and it is not anybody’s fault. No man should be defined by his sperm.
3. Look for Avenues of Hope
After a series of disappointments, negative pregnancy tests, and diagnoses (or lack thereof), the path to fatherhood can often feel hopeless or discouraging. There is hope! Talk with your doctor about which options are available to you.
Have you tried IVF or IUI without success? Or are you looking to expand your family while also being able to experience pregnancy? Embryo adoption is a great option for couples who struggle with male-factor infertility. There are a million of frozen embryos that are waiting for a loving home! Embryo adoption is a proven successful family-building plan and allows men to experience the joys of fatherhood.
This Father’s Day, we are here to support you. Do not hesitate to reach out for assistance, and find joy again on this very special holiday.
Read further about Male Factor Infertility here:
Supporting Men through Male Factor Infertility this Father’s Day
Male Infertility Overcome with Embryo Adoption
To learn more about embryo adoption or donation, visit EmbryoAdoption.org.
Recent Comments