Traditionally, when a couple struggles to conceive, the woman is often seen as the one who is at fault. This view contributes to a culture of shame and stigma around fertility issues, which could have a profound impact on a woman’s mental health and well-being. However, infertility is not only a women’s issue.
For many black communities, having children is an essential part of achievement, says Menzi Maseko, a Sankofarist, and cultural entrepreneur from kwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal. He emphasises that this is not just a problem for women, men also have a role to play in addressing this issue.
Rather, it may simply require men to take responsibility for their health.
There are solutions to infertility
He says, “In situations where someone in a clan cannot conceive a child naturally, the family should consider using in-vitro fertilisation (IVF) with a sperm donor from the same clan. Even if the biological father is not involved, the child will still be the same blood.”
He acknowledges that this plan may not be for everyone, as some people may not be open to the idea. However, he argues that it could be seen as a blend of traditional and modern solutions, which could be beneficial for the parties involved.
Gengezi Babu-Yuze, an artist from the Mandalay in Cape Town, shares her thoughts on how difficult it can be for men to find out if they can or cannot have children.
Babu-Yuze explains that it’s not uncommon for men who are struggling with infertility to hide their challenges, even going so far as to pretend that they have children with other women. This can be a very difficult and sensitive topic for men to discuss, as it’s often stigmatised and can make them feel like they’re not “man enough”, she adds.
However, it’s important for men to be honest about their infertility so that they can get the support they need and hopefully find a solution, she says.
“The media has made it a point to bring attention to these issues; as a result, even men are now casually examining, while others adopt babies without bothering about social stigma.”
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Male health matters
Dr Mthembeni Tebelele, a medical practitioner from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape, explains that fertility tests begin with taking a thorough medical history from both patients, including information about medications, previous pregnancies or operations, and lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol consumption.
After that, both parties will undergo screening for weight, height, sexually transmitted infections, tuberculosis, and HIV.
“The man’s testicles will be examined specifically for any abnormalities. This may also be used as an opportunity to test for prostate depending on age.”
Based on the results of the initial tests, Tebelele says the man may then be referred for semen analysis (sperm test) or further testing. This is to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be affecting fertility.
According to Tebelele, the majority of male fertility issues are related to sperm abnormalities. These may include low sperm count (fewer than 15 million sperm per millilitre of semen), sperm morphology abnormalities (significantly less than 15mill/ml), and ejaculation disorders.
“If the problems stem from motility or abnormal sperm, cessation of certain habits like alcohol consumption and smoking will be recommended, weight reduction, healthy diet and exercise.”
Dr Mthembeni Tebelele
He says, “Any hormonal abnormalities from blood tests may need correction or referral to a gynae or endocrinologist or fertility specialist.”
Men might be offered vitamin supplements and pills to improve their sperm count based on the results. If the sperm count is too low or there are tubal challenges, IVF may be recommended if not artificial insemination.
Good health = quality sperm!
He points out that for people who take steroids, quitting usage will allow the testes to work harder to create testosterone and sperm, but continued use would lead the testes to become lazy and smaller.
According to Tebelele, improving the chances of having a baby requires frequent but ovulation-timed intercourse, effective communication, and good care of pre-existing medical issues such as diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, obesity, and depression.
He says choices are beneficial and boost possibilities, but it takes two to tango, so any difficulties on the other end must be addressed as well.
Within three months of discipline, IVF may provide up to 40% positive outcomes, and quitting smoking and alcohol addiction, as well as losing weight, increase sperm findings. Dual engagement and support along the process provide a psychological lift and reduce stress.
So, if you have problems conceiving, it’s time to man up and get tested.
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