In Singapore, the narrative around infertility has traditionally focused on women, leaving many unaware of the significant role that men play in this issue. However, the rise in cases of male infertility in Singapore is shedding light on a critical and often overlooked aspect of reproductive health. As societal attitudes evolve, it’s time to confront the stigma and silence surrounding infertile men in Singapore.
Here are Mr. Mimrah Mahmood and Mr. Adrian Ang—two Singaporean men who have faced the unexpected challenges of infertility. Their experiences shed light on the struggles many men face and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding this sensitive issue.
A Growing Concern
Recent data indicates a dramatic increase in male infertility cases across Singapore. Institutions like Singapore General Hospital have reported a five-fold rise in male infertility cases, reflecting a broader global trend of declining sperm quality over the past few decades.
This surge is attributed to various factors, including lifestyle choices, environmental pollutants, and even climate change. Despite these alarming statistics, male infertility remains a taboo subject, often overshadowed by discussions about female fertility.
Uncovering the Unexpected: Mr. Mahmood’s Story
Source: TODAY
For Mr. Mimrah Mahmood, the news was a shock. Leading a lifestyle he considered healthy—avoiding smoking and alcohol, and maintaining a robust physique—he was stunned when he discovered his low sperm count a year after trying to conceive with his wife.
“During the doctor’s appointment, it was a big shock for my wife as well,” he shared. “She had been concerned she might have an undiagnosed issue.”
Male infertility is increasingly coming to light, though it remains under-discussed. Experts note that conditions such as low sperm count and poor sperm morphology, which affect sperm mobility, are on the rise. The reasons are varied, from lifestyle choices to environmental factors. Yet, the conventional belief that infertility is primarily a female issue deters many men from seeking diagnosis and support.
Overcoming Stigma: Mr. Ang’s Journey
Source: The Singapore Women’s Weekly
Mr. Adrian Ang, known as “Xiao Ming” from SGAG, kept his fertility struggles a secret for over a year. Diagnosed with poor sperm morphology and low motility, Mr. Ang felt “shocked and helpless” as he faced the reality of his condition.
“It was a shock because I never thought that there would be something wrong with my body,” he recalled.
Mr. Ang’s experience reflects the broader issue of stigma surrounding male infertility.
“I wallowed in self-pity for quite a bit,” he admitted. However, his journey was made easier by his openness with his wife and their shared goal of starting a family. Despite the difficulties, seeing his child’s smile made the challenges worth it.
The Rising Tide of Male Infertility in Singapore
According to KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital, there has been a more-than-40 percent increase in IVF cases from 2014 to 2023. This rise correlates with better detection of male infertility, as couples undergo thorough investigations before IVF treatments.
Dr. Chua Ka-Hee from the hospital noted, “About 15 percent of couples in Singapore are not fertile, of which one-third is due to factors stemming from the men.”
Several factors contribute to male infertility, including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and environmental exposures. Dr. Huang Zhongwei found that extreme heat exposure before semen collection can adversely affect sperm concentration and count.
“Normalizing conversations around male infertility would help make information more accessible and reduce the stigma,” said Dr. Huang.
Breaking the Silence: Support and Resources
Source: Shutterstock
Men dealing with infertility often face societal pressures and internalized shame. Ms. Kimberly Unwin from Fertility Support SG highlighted that many men hesitate to seek help due to societal expectations.
“It is common for men to be more hesitant to seek help when dealing with infertility, particularly when the issue is related to sperm quality or other male-specific factors.”
Fertility Support SG offers valuable resources, support groups, and awareness campaigns to help men navigate their fertility journeys. These initiatives aim to break down barriers and provide a supportive community for those struggling with infertility.
Moving Forward
Mr. Mahmood and Mr. Ang are shining examples that male infertility is more than just a whispered concern—it’s a real issue that demands our attention and understanding. Let’s shatter the silence and spotlight this crucial topic, because the men dealing with infertility in Singapore deserve support, not stigma.
It’s time to break free from outdated norms and spark open conversations about male infertility. By doing so, we pave the way for a more inclusive and supportive environment. So, if you or someone you know is navigating the tricky waters of infertility, don’t hesitate to seek help and explore resources. Embracing this dialogue not only eases personal struggles but also fuels a broader shift towards empathy and understanding.
The road to parenthood is tough, but you don’t have to go it alone. Share your story, find your support, and let’s work together to build a more informed and compassionate community for infertile men in Singapore.
Let’s break those barriers and champion a brighter, more supportive future!
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