The societal stigma that accompanies the issue of infertility comes into sharp focus
during Infertility Week, now being observed by the Sir Lester Bird Medical Center
(SLBMC).
Communications Manager for SLBMC, Salma Crump said the healthcare facility is
using the week to shine a light on the issue with a series of radio and television
interviews with experts on the subject, led by the Head of the Obstetrics and
Gynecology (OBGYN) Department, Dr. Raymond Mansoor. She added that this
week is Infertility Awareness Week and SLBMC is joining others around the
world to help reduce the stigma, change the conversation, and provide support for
many working to overcome infertility.
“On Wednesday (today), we are holding a special educational session for health
professionals who are not OBGYNs to discuss the issue and in particular to discuss
In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) because we are aware that the first point of contact for
many women/couples is their primary health care provider, who in most cases is a
general practitioner,” Crump explained. The session will take place at the SLBMC.
The hospital’s communications manager said opening up discussion on the subject
will likely lead to the removal of the taboo that surrounds the subject of infertility.
Additionally, she noted that it is a widely held view that infertility is primarily a
women’s issue, but that the hospital wants to see the subject embraced by everyone
as it affects men, the family, and the society generally.
“Men face infertility issues but because women are often the ones who go to see
the doctor and males have traditionally been reluctant to discuss it, much of the
burden is placed on women when infertility affects a couple,” she stated.
Menu
Menu
