Why Men Are the Missing Piece in the Family Planning Puzzle — And What We Can Do About It

Did you know that in the story of family planning, men are often the unsung heroes? Or worse — the forgotten characters? It’s time to flip the script. A recent eye-opening study spanning 23 African countries reveals that when it comes to male reproductive health, we’re missing huge pieces of the puzzle. (Spoiler: This isn’t just an African issue; it’s a global wake-up call.)

The paper, titled “Men and family planning: studies from 23 African countries reveal gaps in what we know”, throws down the gauntlet on our collective blind spot. It points out that for too long, research and resources have centered on women, sidelining men’s roles and health needs in family planning.

Why does this matter so much? Because fertility is a team sport. Men’s reproductive health issues — from sperm quality to hormonal imbalances — can be major factors in conception journeys. Yet, societal taboos, lack of education, and limited male-specific fertility resources mean men often don’t get the support or information they need.

Let’s unpack some of the issues:

• Stigma and Silence: Many men avoid fertility talks because admitting concerns feels like admitting weakness. This silence fuels misinformation.
• Limited Research: The study highlights huge gaps in data on male contraceptive use, fertility challenges, and reproductive health behaviors.
• Access to Resources: Unlike women, men have fewer at-home fertility testing or support tools readily available, making early detection and intervention harder.

So, what’s the good news? Progress is brewing, and innovations like at-home insemination kits are changing the game for men and couples alike.

Take a company like MakeAMom, for example. They specialize in at-home insemination kits that empower couples — no matter their unique fertility hurdles — to take control of their journey outside of costly clinical settings. Their product lineup even caters to specific male factors, like low motility sperm, with the Impregnator kit, or sensitivity issues with the BabyMaker kit.

Imagine the empowerment when men can actively engage in conception efforts, equipped with tools designed to maximize success. The 67% average success rate reported by MakeAMom users is no small feat. And because the kits are reusable and discreet, they help break down barriers around privacy and stigma.

This shift is more than convenience — it’s a cultural reset. Men can start feeling included rather than sidelined, bringing their wellness to the forefront and supporting healthier family planning conversations.

But it doesn’t stop there. How do we continue closing these gaps? Here are some game-changing moves:

• Normalize Male Fertility Talk: We’ve got to get comfortable discussing sperm counts and fertility struggles in men's health spaces.
• Expand Education: Schools, clinics, and public health campaigns should spotlight male reproductive health alongside female.
• Innovate Accessible Testing: More affordable, user-friendly male fertility tests and resources must hit the market.
• Support Inclusive Products: Whether it’s home insemination kits or fertility supplements, products should address diverse male needs.

For those curious about taking a proactive, knowledgeable role in their fertility journey, exploring tools like MakeAMom’s at-home insemination kits can be a great place to start. It’s about reclaiming agency and opening up conversations — and devices — that have historically been female-focused.

At the end of the day, family planning is about partnership — two halves making a whole. Including men fully in the conversation, research, and solutions isn’t just fair; it’s smart.

So here’s a thought to leave you with: When was the last time you talked about male fertility — not just as an afterthought, but as a priority? If that question makes you pause, maybe it’s time for a new kind of conversation. One where everyone’s role is clear, valued, and supported.

What’s your take? Have you noticed male fertility getting the attention it deserves (or not)? Join the conversation below.

Because when it comes to building families, knowledge — and inclusivity — is power.