Making sure misinformation about infertility doesn’t spread around isn’t easy. This is especially true given that we’re living in the Internet era where anyone and everyone can throw a website into cyberspace and make a claim. (And believe us – some do just to be controversial or get web-based “buzz”.)
Recently, we at RSI came across a particularly glaring (not to mention shockingly insensitive) error on a site (we won’t name it because we don’t want it to get traffic) that purports to deal with infertility. In fact, it’s a site that seems to get regular traffic, which is a shame.
What was the concern? In a nutshell, the site claimed that infertility in couples is typically the woman’s “fault” and not the man’s “fault”. We were initially taken aback… then, a moment later, we were horrified at the thought that someone might take what was written as the truth.
Anyone who has been reading the RSI blog knows that we’re staunchly against two very important elements of this “claim”. Namely, our frustration is with the notion that women are somehow capable of being at fault for fertility issues plus we’re offended by the mere mention of anyone being somehow complicit, as if infertility were a choice.
The truth – and we can back our declarations with medical community statistics – is:
1. Infertility plays an equal role for men and women.
It’s well-known in medical circles that no one should shoulder any blame when it comes to infertility. There’s about a 40% chance of infertility being a male issue, a 40% chance of infertility being a female issue and a 20% chance of it being a couple (or unknown) issue. Therefore, it is statistically inaccurate to say that women could be “at fault”.
2. The term “fault” is unnecessary and insulting.
Let’s be honest – the term “fault” implies deliberateness on the part of the person experiencing infertility. Question: How is this possible? Answer: It’s not.
The moral of the story? Be careful what you believe about infertility no matter what source you’re using. Go to reputable sites for your information like www.RSIInfertility.com. And always do your own research before making any statements or conclusions.
