The infertility explosion: Top Hyderabad doctor discusses problem, solution & social stigma

Hyderabad: The journey of infertility is often fraught with silent struggles and societal taboos. Despite its prevalence, misconceptions and stigmas surrounding infertility continue to persist, adding layers of emotional burden to couples seeking to conceive.

To shed light on this delicate topic, NewsMeter sat down with Dr. V. Hemalatha Reddy, Consultant Infertility Specialist at Kamineni Fertility Centre, King Koti, to delve deeper into the emotional complexities and practical advice for couples navigating the challenges of infertility.

Understanding the Misconceptions

Dr. Reddy highlights the prevailing misconception that infertility is solely a woman's issue, leading to reluctance among men to undergo testing.

“This belief perpetuates societal norms that disproportionately blame women for reproductive challenges, causing emotional distress and low self-esteem,” said Dr. Reddy.

Societal Norms and Concealment

“Societal norms often attribute infertility to women, leaving male infertility issues concealed and burdened upon wives,” she said.

Dr. Reddy emphasizes the strain on relationships due to this disproportionate blame, exacerbating emotional distress.

Lifestyle Factors and Prevalence

Dr. Reddy identifies various lifestyle factors contributing to infertility, including diet, age, smoking, and environmental factors.

Couples are advised to address these factors and seek medical guidance if conception does not occur within a specific timeframe.

Emotional Burden of Fertility Treatments

The emotional burden of fertility treatments manifests in stigma, shame, and secrecy, impacting couples' mental well-being and relationships.

Dr. Reddy underscores the importance of seeking psychological support and open communication during the emotional rollercoaster of assisted reproductive technologies.

Navigating Infertility Together

Mutual support and understanding play a crucial role in couples' emotional journey through infertility. Dr. Reddy encourages couples to communicate openly, seek support groups, and prioritize self-care to alleviate stress and maintain emotional well-being.

Practical Advice for Couples

Dr. Reddy offers practical advice for couples, including validating feelings, seeking professional guidance, and avoiding comparisons.

“Lifestyle modifications, self-care, and maintaining a positive mindset are essential in navigating the challenges of infertility” she added.

Challenges in Acceptance

Accepting male infertility diagnoses poses challenges, especially for couples from higher social classes.

Dr. Reddy emphasizes personalized counseling and support to help couples accept the facts and undergo necessary tests and treatments.

Challenging Stigmas and Fostering Support

To challenge stigmas surrounding infertility, Dr. Reddy advocates for empathy, sharing experiences, and respecting privacy.

“Families and society should offer support without intrusive questioning, creating a more compassionate environment for those affected,” said Dr. Reddy.

Available Support Systems

Support groups, psychological counseling, and personalized care are crucial support systems for individuals and couples navigating infertility.

Dr. Reddy emphasizes the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing emotional needs at every step of the journey.

Creating an Inclusive Environment

Looking ahead, Dr. Reddy calls for societal acceptance, empathy, and non-judgmental attitudes towards infertility.

“By offering support and understanding, society can create a more inclusive and compassionate environment for individuals and couples affected by infertility” she added.

Dr. V. Hemalatha Reddy underscores the importance of breaking the silence surrounding infertility and fostering empathy and support in the journey towards conception.

“With personalized care, open communication, and societal acceptance, couples can navigate the emotional complexities of infertility with resilience and hope” Dr. Reddy concluded.