James Evans MS has highlighted the lack of initiatives to address male infertility across Wales.
In an exchange with the Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing Sarah Murphy MS yesterday (12/02), James pointed out how male infertility is often overlooked. Approximately 1 in 7 couples have difficulty conceiving and male infertility is a contributing factor in up to 50% of these cases.
Sarah Murphy MS responded by saying there shouldn’t be any shame or stigma around male infertility as it’s not as uncommon as people think, but also said it is a specialised treatment service and one that is not provided across all health boards.
James Evans MS, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Health and Social Care, said:
“Despite significant studies indicating that male factors contribute to 30-50% of infertility cases across Wales, there are a lack of specific initiatives addressing this problem. Most men often feel like they’re left in the dark with most treatments focused on the woman.
“There are notable differences in the fertility treatments offered across different health boards and patients often lack autonomy to choose their preferred treatment centre – leaving some men feeling shame, frustration and anger because they don’t feel like they’re getting the support they need.
“I’m calling on the Welsh Government to do more to support men suffering from infertility issues, and to finally start recognising those men who often feel forgotten about on their treatment journey.”
