New research has revealed that 43 per cent of people who have experienced fertility-related stigma cited feelings of low self-esteem, while 41 per cent experienced anxiety or depression.
Almost half (46 per cent) of adults surveyed have had experience with fertility issues, either personally or through someone they know, and over one-third (34 per cent) had experienced stigma overall.
Survey respondents were asked about a series of situations about where stigma can present, such as invasive questions, humour or sarcasm about family planning, and to describe the impact that these experiences had on them. Over one-in-four people (26 per cent) felt stigmatised due to pressure from family and friends to start a family. The results also found that:
- 43 per cent of people cited feelings of low self-esteem.Â
- 41 per cent experienced anxiety or depression.Â
- 38 per cent agreed they kept their treatment a secret.Â
- 26 per cent felt guilt and 25 per cent felt feelings of shame.Â
- 24 per cent agreed they withdrew from family events where children were present.Â
- 18 per cent said their ability to enjoy everyday life was impacted.Â
To highlight the impact of fertility stigma, Sims IVF has launched a new campaign ‘Any News’ for Fertility Awareness Week 2024, to raise awareness of the impact seemingly harmful questions or interactions can have on people experiencing challenges when trying to conceive.
The ‘Any News’ campaign encourages those who may be experiencing challenges when trying to conceive, to ‘Turn Questions into Answers’ with the expert team at Sims IVF.
The nationally representative research was commission by Sims IVF and was carried out amongst 1,000 Irish adults, seeking to understand the impact that stigma or judgement related to fertility has on individuals and couples.
