Experts call for compassionate language in fertility treatment
Experts call for compassionate language in fertility treatment
Fertility experts are urging for a shift in the way fertility challenges are discussed, warning that common phrases like “slow swimmers” and “inhospitable environments” can unintentionally reinforce stigma, blame and misinformation.
With over 3% of births in the UK now resulting from IVF, roughly equivalent to one child in every classroom, the language used around fertility is increasingly important. Phrases that are often used casually in the media and everyday conversation can oversimplify complex medical issues and deepen the emotional strain for people trying to conceive. Dr Victoria Sephton, Chief Medical Officer at Care Fertility, explains why the language used around fertility matters and how conversations can be reframed with empathy and scientific accuracy.
The problem with phrases like “inhospitable environment” and “slow swimmers”
“Terms like ‘slow swimmers’ or describing the uterus as an ‘inhospitable environment’ may sound like harmless shorthand, but they oversimplify very complex biological processes” explains Dr Septhon. “When fertility challenges are framed in this way, it can give the impression that someone’s body is somehow ‘failing’, which isn’t an accurate or helpful way to understand fertility.
Fertility is influenced by many different factors, including hormones, genetics, age, lifestyle choices and overall health. Reducing these complexities to a single phrase risks spreading misconceptions and adding unnecessary emotional pressure,” Dr Sephton adds.
How blame-based language disproportionately impacts women
“Historically, fertility difficulties have been framed as primarily a women’s issue, despite research showing that male fertility factors contribute to around half of all infertility cases” explains Dr Sephton. “Language has played a large part in placing the onus on women when it comes to conception. Phrases such as ‘hostile uterus’ or ‘inhospitable environment’ can subtly imply that a woman’s body is preventing pregnancy, which may reinforce feelings of guilt or self-blame.
This can also extend into everyday conversations, where well-meaning but dismissive comments like ‘just relax and it’ll happen’ or ‘have you tried…’ followed by unsolicited advice about diets, supplements or lifestyle changes can place further pressure on women, suggesting they are somehow doing something wrong or not trying hard enough,”Dr Sephton emphasises.
Why male fertility is often minimised or joked about
“While women are often blamed, male fertility issues are frequently minimised through humour or casual language. Male fertility is sometimes treated as a joke in popular culture, with phrases like ‘needing stronger swimmers’ and ‘maybe he’s shooting blanks’ used light-heartedly” highlights Dr Sephton. “Although these comments are often intended as jokes, they can reinforce outdated views about fertility and masculinity being linked to sexual performance.
This can make it harder for men to speak openly about fertility concerns or seek medical advice, as they may feel embarrassed, stigmatised or worried about how they will be perceived by those around them. As a result, humour that appears harmless can contribute to silence around male fertility and delay men accessing the support or testing they may need.” Dr Sephton comments.
The psychological toll of “failure” and “defect” framing
“For individuals and couples, trying to conceive can already be emotionally demanding. Language that frames fertility challenges as a “failure” of the body can intensify these feelings. Words like ‘failure’, ‘defective’ or ‘poor quality’ are sometimes used clinically, but when these terms filter into everyday conversation they can feel incredibly personal. Patients often internalise this language, which can affect their confidence and emotional wellbeing,” notes Dr Sephton.
The role of media and pop culture in shaping fertility conversations
The media often relies on simplified or dramatic language to make complex medical topics easier to explain. For example, in the popular sitcom Friends, Chandler and Monica’s fertility journey includes jokes throughout suggesting their bodies are ‘not compatible’.
While moments like this are often intended for comic purposes or to make light of a complicated issue, they can normalise language that doesn’t accurately reflect the science behind fertility, and reinforce the idea that this language isn’t problematic. Using clear, accurate and compassionate language instead can help reduce stigma and ensure people feel supported rather than judged.
Reframing fertility conversations with empathy and accuracy
“Small changes in the way we talk about fertility can make a meaningful difference. Avoiding blame-based language, recognising fertility as a shared issue and focusing on support rather than fault can help create a more compassionate conversation. As conversations around fertility continue to grow in public life, it’s important that the language we use evolves too,” Dr Sephton concludes.
Care Fertility is encouraging more open and supportive discussions about fertility, helping to ensure patients feel informed, understood and supported throughout their journey.
Expert commentary from Dr Victoria Sephton is available for journalists on request.