In a recent study published in the journal BMC Public Health , researchers determined the incidence of anxiety symptoms in infertile men. Study: Prevalence of anxiety symptoms in infertile men: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Image Credit: Numstocker / Shutterstock.
com Infertility can be defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse. As a leading reproductive problem throughout the world, about 17.5% of the global population is affected by infertility, with the prevalence of infertility varying in different regions.
The World Health Organization (WHO) considers infertility a significant public health issue, as it leads to negative physical, psychological, social, and financial stress. Couples experiencing infertility are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, fear, guilt, avoidance, and frustration. Previous studies estimate that the male factor is the primary or effective factor in 50% of couples experiencing infertility.
Infertile men often suffer isolation, self-blame, feelings of sexual inadequacy, and anxiety, with many associating their infertility with incomplete identity and masculinity. The inability to have children induces many psychological problems, particularly in societies where fertility is highly valued and a prime goal of marriage. Infertility induces fear of divorce, rejection, remarriage, and other unwanted changes that trigger anxiety in men.
To date, no study has conducted a meta-analysis to understand the .
