Newswise — A recent study conducted by UCL researchers suggests that the language utilized to convey information regarding fertility awareness ought to be more compassionate and inclusive of both genders.
The assessment, which appeared in Human Reproduction Open, presents five suggestions for advancing fertility awareness in a more favorable manner.
Although teaching individuals about fertility is not inherently contentious, selecting the appropriate language to broach the subject can be challenging, as there is a risk of triggering adverse outcomes such as anxiety, blame, and social disapproval.
Upon scrutinizing prior research and literature pertaining to the matter, the group expressed a particular interest in resolving language-related dilemmas that could elicit a sense of personal responsibility, the exclusion of individuals experiencing difficulties with fertility, and emotional distress associated with idealized health conditions.
Consequently, they found that it was important to:
- Frame fertility awareness messages with reproductive autonomy in mind and aim to be inclusive of those who do not represent the traditional nuclear family.
- Be empathetic and steer clear of blame.
- Avoid scaremongering and offer a positive angle.
- Give due consideration to both women and men in fertility health messaging.
- Tailor the messages to particular contexts and audiences and develop resources in close collaboration with the target groups.
According to Professor Joyce Harper, who authored the paper and is the founder and chair of the International Reproductive Health Education Collaboration at UCL's EGA Institute for Women’s Health, phrasing information regarding fertility in a manner that people are amenable to and that does not give rise to offense is a challenging undertaking. Despite the existence of reproductive health education resources, the field of reproductive health promotion is still in its initial stages and requires additional efforts.
In terms of autonomy, the researchers discovered that it was crucial to emphasize that having children is a personal decision and that not everyone may desire to become a parent.
Additionally, the team aimed to guarantee that reproductive health information was inclusive of non-binary individuals and those whose gender identity does not correspond with their sex assigned at birth.
To circumvent unwarranted blame or stigmatization, the researchers suggest that it may be more advantageous to provide positive recommendations regarding the influence of a healthy diet and consistent physical activity on reproductive health. This approach could be more effective than perpetuating taboos surrounding weight and obesity, which may lead individuals to experience shame or distress.
Similarly, the researchers propose that a positive tone be employed in messages concerning the effect of age on fertility. For instance, although the probability of having a healthy pregnancy decreases as individuals age, it may not always be feasible or desirable for them to have children at a young age.
The researchers also suggest refraining from overstating the risks to fertility, as this could result in heightened levels of anxiety.
Moreover, the researchers emphasize the significance of designing messages that are geared towards men, emphasizing how they can contribute to the likelihood of conception and the well-being of a future child. By highlighting the importance of both sexes in reproductive outcomes, the messages can encourage a shared responsibility towards family planning and pregnancy.
Lastly, to customize health messaging to specific contexts and audiences, the researchers propose the involvement of individuals with personal experiences, to ensure that priorities and language are precise, useful, and accessible. This can assist in generating messages that are more relatable and effective in promoting fertility awareness.
Professor Harper expressed that reproductive health communication is a particularly complex undertaking and necessitates collaboration with diverse target groups to ensure that the messaging is appropriate and effective.
She added that the five recommendations put forth by the team aim to serve as a foundation for promoting more positive and inclusive communication of reproductive health awareness in the future.
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