Infertility is a journey often seen through the lens of women’s experiences, but it greatly impacts men as well. To shed light on this, we sat down with Sarah Nelson, Nurse Practitioner, WHNP-BC, at Wellnest, to discuss the emotional and mental struggles men face during infertility, how they differ from women, and what clinics like Wellnest are doing to provide support.

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Q: Do you see that men are also suffering emotionally and mentally during infertility?

Sarah Nelson: Absolutely. Infertility affects both partners, and men are not immune to the feelings of guilt, shame, frustration, helplessness, and isolation that often accompany this journey. Society often pressures men to “stay strong” and not express vulnerability, which can make it even harder for them to open up. The stigma surrounding infertility adds to this challenge, but it’s important to recognize and address their emotional struggles.

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Q: In your experience, do men and women handle infertility differently?

Sarah Nelson: Yes, they do. Historically, infertility has been framed as primarily a female issue, but we now know that it affects men and women equally. A diagnosis of male infertility can be unexpected and sometimes difficult to process. Men and women often engage with the process differently, partly due to their roles in treatment. Men providing sperm, for example, may not have as many appointments or procedures, which can make them feel less involved in the journey.

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Q: Do you see men actively seeking support for their fertility challenges?

Sarah Nelson: We encourage all our patients to be active participants in their treatment, and this includes men. At Wellnest, we emphasize open communication and validate each patient’s needs with compassion. By addressing the stigma and creating an inclusive environment, we hope to make it easier for men to seek the support they need.

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Q: Some studies suggest that men prefer hearing information over written materials from clinics. Is this something you notice?

Sarah Nelson: People have different learning preferences, and this applies to men navigating infertility as well. At Wellnest, we aim to meet patients where they are by offering information in various formats—visual, oral, and written—to ensure clear communication. It’s all about tailoring the experience to what resonates most with each individual. If you’d like to learn more about what it’s like to be a patient at Wellnest, schedule a free welcome call to learn more.

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Q: How does Wellnest specifically support men dealing with infertility?

Sarah Nelson: We’re proud to offer comprehensive resources for men, whether they’re exploring their fertility independently or with a partner. This includes consultations, sperm testing, and tailored guidance on next steps. Additionally, we’ve partnered with a mental health therapist to provide counseling and support group resources specifically for men facing infertility or pregnancy loss. It’s about creating a safe space where they feel heard and supported. Book your diagnostic appointment here.

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Breaking Down Barriers to Male Fertility Care

As Sarah Nelson highlights, infertility is a shared journey, and men deserve the same level of support and care as women. Whether through testing, counseling, or creating spaces to foster open communication, Wellnest is committed to breaking the stigma and offering inclusive, compassionate care for all patients.

If you or your partner are navigating infertility, remember you don’t have to go through it alone. Schedule a consultation today and take the next step toward understanding your fertility health.

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