Abhijit Dhillon, an MSc Health and International Development student, explores the critical yet often overlooked issue of men’s sexual and reproductive health (SRH). He critiques the narrow focus of current SRHR discourse, which predominantly addresses women’s health concerns, leaving men’s health needs largely ignored and stigmatized. Dhillon advocates for a shift towards a more inclusive SRHR framework that recognizes the sexual and reproductive health of everyone, regardless of gender.
The Neglect of Men’s SRHR
The global conversation around sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) largely revolves around issues like contraception, maternal health, and gender-based violence, which are undoubtedly vital, but this focus often excludes men. When men’s SRHR are considered, they are frequently framed as secondary to women’s issues, casting men as “partners” in supporting women’s reproductive health rather than as active participants with distinct health needs. This approach not only overlooks the health challenges men face—such as male infertility, STIs, and erectile dysfunction—but also perpetuates broader public health risks.
The Stigma of Seeking Help
Dhillon argues that the cultural and societal norms around masculinity play a significant role in silencing men’s health concerns. Phrases like “real men don’t need help” are emblematic of the pressure men face to ignore their health needs, especially regarding sexual and reproductive health. This stigma leads many men to suffer in silence rather than seeking help, exacerbating health issues like infertility or erectile dysfunction, which could otherwise be addressed with professional care.
In countries like India, where male sexual health issues are often categorized as “gupt rog” (secret diseases), the reluctance to discuss and seek treatment for these problems is even more pronounced. Men are often driven to unregulated and potentially harmful treatments from traditional healers or self-styled “sex doctors” instead of receiving proper medical care.
Male Infertility: A Silent Crisis
Infertility, often perceived as a “women’s problem,” is actually equally prevalent in men, with male infertility accounting for about 50% of infertility cases. Despite this, men rarely seek tests or treatment, often due to the stigma surrounding infertility. This misperception creates a gap in the healthcare system, where men are less likely to access support, which ultimately affects their fertility outcomes and broader health.
Masculinity and Risky Sexual Behaviours
Men adhering to traditional “masculine” norms are more likely to engage in risky sexual behaviors, such as not using protection or having multiple sexual partners. At the same time, these men are less likely to access SRHR services, seeing it as a sign of vulnerability or weakness. This creates a public health issue, as untreated STIs and unhealthy sexual behaviors contribute to higher transmission rates and complicate men’s sexual and reproductive health.
The Healthcare System’s Gendered Focus
Currently, healthcare services related to SRHR are primarily designed with women in mind, from family planning clinics to sexual health programs. This gendered approach results in a lack of services for men that address their own unique SRHR needs. Even when men engage with healthcare services, they are often positioned as “supporters” rather than active participants in their health journey.
Toxic Masculinity and Anti-Rights Movements
The anti-rights movement, particularly in areas such as reproductive justice and LGBTQ+ rights, often weaponizes traditional masculinity against progress. These groups frame SRHR as a “feminist” or “left-wing” agenda that threatens the traditional family structure, reinforcing the idea that men must be strong protectors, which includes rejecting the notion of vulnerability or engaging with reproductive healthcare.
Such narratives not only harm men’s SRHR but also hinder progress toward gender equality. By excluding men from SRHR conversations, we inadvertently empower anti-rights groups to use masculinity as a tool to perpetuate outdated gender norms.
Moving Beyond “Men as Partners” in SRHR
Dhillon calls for a paradigm shift in how SRHR is framed. While the “men as partners” approach is important for engaging men in supporting women’s reproductive health, it must be complemented by a “men as clients” approach. This approach recognizes that men have their own distinct SRHR needs that must be addressed for both fairness and public health.
This shift involves dismantling the stigma around men’s SRHR through public health campaigns that encourage men to seek care and education that teaches boys about their bodies, consent, and their right to SRHR services. It also requires policy changes to expand SRHR services to include treatments for infertility, STI prevention, mental health support, and other male-specific needs.
Conclusion
Men’s sexual and reproductive health deserves as much attention as women’s, and it is time for SRHR to become truly inclusive. By acknowledging and addressing men’s unique health needs, we not only improve individual well-being but also contribute to broader public health goals. This approach will dismantle harmful gender norms, promote better health outcomes for all, and ensure that SRHR advocacy leaves no one behind.
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