The Journal
Fertility Tracking: From 1920s BBT to Modern Wearables
It’s funny how some things in life never really change they just get better accessories. Back in the 1920s, when women wore cloche hats and jazz was the soundtrack of the city, an unlikely wellness trend was quietly beginning: Basal Body Temperature tracking. That’s right, while the rest of the world was dancing the Charleston, some women were waking up at the same time every morning, taking their temperature, and scribbling it down in careful little charts, all in aid of fertility tracking. Fast forward a century, and here I am, in my favourite pyjamas, not a cloche in sight tracking my own BBT… except my thermometer is now a sleek little wearable called Tempdrop, syncing my fertility tracking data to my phone while I sip my oat milk latte. Technology may have changed, but the principle? It's still the same as the flapper era. So how did we get from delicate glass thermometers to an wearable fertility tracking? Let’s take a trip back through time. The jazz age awakening: BBT in the 1920s The 1920s were all about liberation shorter skirts, bolder lipstick, and for some women, the first forays into self-knowledge about their cycles. Scientists had started to notice something fascinating: a woman’s body temperature subtly changes throughout her menstrual cycle. Your basal body temperature (that’s your temperature first thing in the morning, before moving or speaking) rises slightly after ovulation. And this was a huge innovation for fertility tracking. Armed with this discovery, a few forward-thinking women began to track these changes, slowly, methodically, and without the luxury of Google searches or cycle-tracking apps. They relied on glass thermometers and handwritten charts, recording daily temperatures to understand when they were most fertile. Imagine it: corsets might have been out, but patience and precision were still very much in fashion, and women were empowering themselves to understand fertility tracking. 1930s: The birth of charting for fertility tracking By the 1930s, BBT tracking had a name and a following. “Charting” (AKA fertility tracking), became the term for this process, and it was considered revolutionary. For the first time, women had a tangible, scientific way to understand their bodies no mysticism required. These charts were often works of art in themselves: neat grids, careful dots marking temperatures, little notes about mood or sleep. It was self-care decades before anyone was hashtagging it. And for many women, it was the first step toward realising that their fertility tracking didn't have to be a mystery it was a pattern. 1950s: BBT as the Gold Standard The 1950s were an era of domestic glamour, think immaculate hair, cinched waists, and housewives baking in spotless kitchens. But beneath that polished exterior, many women were running their own little home laboratories, and fertility tracking workshops. By this decade, BBT for fertility tracking was the go-to method for understanding fertility, long before ovulation kits or hormonal birth control existed. If you wanted to know when you were ovulating, you didn’t pop into a pharmacy for a plastic stick to pee on. You grabbed your thermometer, jotted down your reading, and compared it to last month’s. And here’s the thing, it worked. Thousands of women successfully used BBT to plan (or prevent) pregnancy, using nothing more than consistency and a bit of arithmetic, building their own bespoke fertility trackers in a note book! The long road to tech-savvy tracking Through the ‘60s, ‘70s, and ‘80s, fertility tracking using BBT kept quietly going strong. Women who wanted a natural approach swore by it. But let’s be honest, it wasn’t always glamorous. You had to wake up at the same time every day. You couldn’t move much before taking your temperature (forget about morning cuddles). And if you caught a cold, had a late night, or forgot to log one day well, your chart was basically toast. Still, this method of fertility tracking persisted because it was accessible, non-invasive, and empowering. And for many, it was the first step toward a deeper connection with their own health. Enter the digital era The 2000s brought us smartphones, apps, and an ever-expanding collection of wellness gadgets. Cycle-tracking apps were a game changer, suddenly, those handwritten grids could be replaced by clean, colour-coded digital charts. Helping women to better visualise their fertility tracking outcomes But the thermometers? Still kind of old-school. That’s where Tempdrop stepped in. This sleek wearable, worn overnight, automatically records your BBT while you sleep, adjusting for movement and environmental factors. In other words, no more strict wake-up times, no more morning juggling acts with a thermometer. Just effortless data that syncs right to your phone. Fertility tracking just go a lot easier. It’s the perfect marriage of a century-old method and modern convenience. Why the history of BBT still matters You might be wondering, why dwell on the past when the future of fertility tracking is already here? Because knowing the history reminds us of one simple truth: women have always sought to understand their bodies and fertility tracking plays a huge part in this. Long before pharmaceutical companies packaged fertility into neat monthly prescriptions, before algorithms predicted our ovulation days, there was curiosity, discipline, and the humble glass thermometer. BBT tracking is not just a method for accurate fertility tracking, it’s a legacy of women taking charge of their reproductive health, even in times when society didn’t always welcome that autonomy. From 1920s flappers to 2020s femtech queens When I put on my Tempdrop before bed, I’m part of a lineage that stretches back to women in the 1920s, women who probably never imagined that their quiet morning ritual would one day be supported by wearable tech and cloud-based data storage, helping women all over the world with their fertility tracking. In a world of quick fixes and instant answers, there’s something romantic about using a fertility tracking method that’s endured for a hundred years, only now, it’s paired with the convenience we’ve been dreaming about since those first handwritten charts. Your cycle, your story If there’s one thing history teaches us, it’s that your cycle is unique, but your challenges with fertility tracking aren’t new. Women have been there, done that, and left you a century of tips, from glass thermometers to the wonders of Tempdrop. So maybe tonight, when you slip into bed, you’ll think of those women in the 1920s and beyond, pen in hand, fertility tracking away under a single lamplight. And maybe you’ll smile knowing that, thanks to modern tech, you can carry on their tradition without sacrificing sleep, or style. Ready to start your own BBT journey? If you’ve ever wanted to take control of your fertility tracking, track your cycle with precision, or simply get to know your flow better, BBT fertility tracking is the time-tested way to do it. And with Tempdrop , it’s finally as effortless as it should be. Because your great-grandmother might have had patience, but you? You have Wi-Fi.
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Why I’m so excited we’re stocking Artah supplements for women's health at femme
femme is excited to welcome Artah, a British, female‑founded brand creating science‑backed supplements that support women’s health, helping you know your flow and feel balanced, energised, and in control.
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Don’t tell me what to do with my boobs | World Breastfeeding Week
World Breastfeeding Week, the femme way Can we just say it? Breastfeeding is one of those topics that comes with an absolutely unnecessary amount of performance anxiety. There’s the guilt, the unsolicited opinions, the “have you tried nipple shields?” crowd, and the occasional emotional breakdown in the middle of a Tesco car park. And honestly? It’s a lot.So, this World Breastfeeding Week, we’re not here to give you a perfectly curated how-to. We’re here to say:You’re allowed to take it one feed, one pump, one panic Google at a time. Every journey is different (because every body is different) At femme, we talk a lot about knowing your flow - but that doesn’t stop at periods. Your postpartum flow matters just as much. Some women breastfeed with ease. Others struggle, switch to formula, mix feed, pump, cry, try again, give up, and then feel guilty about it all. Spoiler: all of that is normal. What works for you might not be what your friend did. What worked yesterday might feel impossible today. And what you need tomorrow might surprise you. But that’s not failure. That’s motherhood. Let’s stop romanticising it (and start supporting it) Sure, breastfeeding can be beautiful and bonding and magical. But breastfeeding can also feel like having a small, unpredictable piranha attached to your chest at 3am. We want to be real about the both/and: You can love your baby and still hate breastfeeding. You can choose formula and still be an incredible mother. You can breastfeed for two years and still have hard days where you resent every second. You’re allowed all of it. And you’re doing better than you think. Breastfeeding: the messy middle no one talks about Breastfeeding gets talked about like it’s either a magical bonding moment or a total nightmare. The reality? Most of us are somewhere in the sticky, leaky, slightly‑sweaty middle. It’s not just about “feeding your baby naturally”, it’s about suddenly living in a body that feels both miraculous and slightly out of your control. It’s the cracked nipples, the stone‑hard engorgement, the uninvited let‑downs (AKA milk ejection reflex), in the middle of a Zoom call. It’s leaking through your top at brunch and wondering if you’ll ever wear a non‑padded bra again. It’s loving the closeness one second and silently counting down until the latch is over the next. And the opinions? Oh, they will come. Nurse in public? Someone will tell you to cover up. Switch to formula? Someone will gasp. Combination feed? Congratulations, you’ve managed to upset both camps. Truly, you cannot win, so why are we still trying? Breastfeeding is wildly personal. Some people feed exclusively from the breast for years. Some pump like it’s a full‑time job. Some manage a few weeks before their mental health waves a white flag. All of these are valid. All of these are motherhood. It’s okay if you use a nipple shield. It’s okay if you don’t. It’s okay if you feed lying down at 2am because your spine is giving up on you. It’s okay if you stop altogether. You do not owe anyone a timeline, an explanation, or a photo‑worthy moment. And no, breastfeeding is not free. It costs time, sleep, energy, and often, a solid chunk of your sense of bodily autonomy. That’s why support matters. Not just “You’re doing great!” texts (though we love those), but the hands‑on kind. Someone to bring you water, make you lunch, or take the baby so you can shower. Someone to say, “If you stop, you’re still an amazing mum.” So if you’re in the thick of it this World Breastfeeding Week, whether you’re loving it, hating it, or living somewhere in‑between ,hear this: your worth as a mother has nothing to do with how, or how long, you breastfeed. You are already enough.And you health and wellbeing is part of this journey too. Why we care (even if we’re not a baby brand) We’re not selling bottles, bras, or breast pumps. But femme is here for women at every hormonal milestone - and trust us, postpartum is one hell of a milestone. Whether you’re three weeks in or three years out, your hormones, body, energy and identity are going through something massive. And you deserve more than platitudes or Pinterest advice. You deserve community, honesty, and support without strings. Some femme-approved reminders (just in case you need them today) Fed is best. Full stop.Don’t let anyone’s feed (online or otherwise) convince you otherwise. Your body has done enough.However you fed your baby today - bottle, breastfeed, both - that’s enough. So are you. Hormones are real and ruthless.Crying over spilled milk (literally)? Blame the prolactin. And maybe get some chocolate. Rituals can save you.Five minutes of skincare. A supplement. A matcha. A slow walk. Tiny moments = survival. You’re not supposed to have this all figured out.You’re learning your baby and yourself, in real time. Trust the messy process. Final Thoughts (and a Virtual Hug from Us) I didn’t even get the choice to breastfeed my daughter, a very complicated birth took that away, so I wish we would stop judging and pressuring women that breast is best. (Stefanie founder) This World Breastfeeding Week, we’re not here to tell you how to feed your baby. We’re just here to remind you that you matter too. Your boobs aren’t public property. Your value isn’t in ounces. And your intuition is more powerful than any parenting book you’ve half-read at 2am. So wherever you’re at today, chest-feeding, bottle-prepping, or somewhere in-between, keep going. You’re doing motherhood your way. And at femme, we’re clapping (quietly, in case the baby’s asleep). ⬇ Click the image below to shop our breastfeeding feature, or head to our website page to learn more from our FREE resources.
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What Your Period Says About Your Health: Why Your Cycle Is More Than Just a Monthly Nuisance
Why Do We Still Treat Periods Like a Monthly Inconvenience? We get it. Periods can be uncomfortable, inconvenient, messy, and painful. But they’re also something more – something we’re not talking about nearly enough. Your menstrual cycle isn’t just a fertility tracker. It’s a vital sign – right up there with heart rate, blood pressure and temperature. When it’s regular and symptom-free, it’s often a sign that your hormones (and wider health) are in sync. And when it’s not? That’s valuable data, too. At Femme Health, we think it’s time to shift the narrative. Here’s what your period is really telling you – and why tuning in is one of the best things you can do for your health. Your Menstrual Cycle as a Vital Sign The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (ACOG) actually recommends that the menstrual cycle be considered a vital sign – especially for adolescents and young adults. Why? Because changes in your cycle can signal issues with: Hormonal health (think oestrogen, progesterone, cortisol and insulin) Thyroid function Nutrient deficiencies Chronic stress or poor sleep Underlying conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, or hypothalamic amenorrhoea In short: your period is your body’s monthly status report. If we only ever treat it as a nuisance to be ignored or medicated away, we miss key health clues. What a “Healthy” Cycle Actually Looks Like Every woman’s cycle is slightly different, but here’s what a healthy menstrual cycle generally includes: Cycle length: 21–35 days (measured from the first day of one period to the first day of the next) Bleeding duration: 3–7 days Flow: Moderate and manageable (not soaking through products every hour) Symptoms: Mild or manageable – not debilitating cramps, exhaustion, or mood swings Regularity: Predictable cycles, with only slight variations month to month If your period ticks these boxes most months, it’s usually a sign that your body is functioning well hormonally. But if things feel off? That’s not something to ignore – it’s a sign worth exploring. What Irregular or Problematic Periods Can Tell You Here are just a few ways your period can act as an early warning system: 1. Heavy or Prolonged Bleeding Could signal fibroids, endometriosis, or low iron levels – or be a sign your oestrogen is dominating without enough progesterone to balance it out. 2. Irregular or Missed Periods Common with stress, PCOS, thyroid disorders or under-eating. A missed period is often the body’s way of saying, “I don’t feel safe enough for reproduction right now.” 3. Painful Periods Mild cramps are normal – but if you’re regularly doubled over in pain, it could be a sign of endometriosis, adenomyosis, or inflammation. 4. Extreme PMS or Mood Swings Could be linked to hormone imbalances, blood sugar fluctuations or PMDD (a more severe form of PMS that affects mood regulation). Why Reframing the Conversation Matters We’ve been taught to treat periods like something to hide, hush or “power through.” But when we ignore our cycles, we miss out on one of the most useful health tools we have. Understanding your cycle helps you: Make more informed healthcare decisions Spot patterns in mood, energy, and sleep Advocate for yourself at the doctor’s office Feel more in control, not blindsided, by your body And when we all start treating menstrual health as essential health, we begin to dismantle the stigma that holds so many women back from seeking the care they deserve. The Bottom Line Your period is not just a monthly nuisance. It’s a messenger. A barometer. A beautifully complex signal from your body that’s worth listening to – not suppressing or silencing. At femme, we’re here to help you tune in, not tune out. Curious about what your period is telling you?Explore our cycle health tools or sign up to the femme newsletter for hormone-friendly insights, expert interviews, and zero-BS health advice.
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What is the Vaginal Microbiome - and Why Should You Care?
The Vaginal Microbiome: Not Just a Buzzword You’ve probably heard the term gut microbiome thrown around, but did you know your vagina has its own ecosystem too? It’s called the vaginal microbiome – and it’s more than just a trending topic in women’s health. This delicate balance of bacteria plays a key role in everything from infection prevention to fertility and hormone health. At Femme Health, we’re all about making the science make sense. So here’s what your vaginal microbiome actually does, what can throw it off, and how to support it without panic-Googling every time something feels “off.” What Is the Vaginal Microbiome? The vaginal microbiome is the community of microorganisms (mainly bacteria) that live in the vagina. Don’t worry – these aren’t the bad kind. In fact, many of them are there to protect you. The superstar of the vaginal microbiome? Lactobacilli. These friendly bacteria help keep the vagina slightly acidic (with a pH of around 3.8 to 4.5), which makes it hard for harmful bacteria, yeast, and viruses to thrive. Why the Vaginal Microbiome Matters When the microbiome is in balance, you’re less likely to experience: Recurring thrush or yeast infections Bacterial vaginosis (BV) Urinary tract infections (UTIs) Vaginal odour or discomfort Fertility struggles (yes, really) It also plays a role in immune defence, pregnancy outcomes, and even how well your body tolerates things like tampons, lube, and sex. What Can Disrupt the Vaginal Microbiome? Unfortunately, this ecosystem is pretty sensitive. Here are some common culprits that can throw things off: Antibiotics: While they kill bad bacteria, they can wipe out the good guys too. Douching or harsh soaps: Your vagina is self-cleaning. It doesn’t need scrubbing. Tight or synthetic underwear: Not great for airflow or moisture balance. Hormonal changes: Menstruation, pregnancy, perimenopause and HRT can all affect the microbiome. Sex (especially unprotected): Semen has a higher pH, which can temporarily disrupt balance. Stress and poor sleep: Yep, your vaginal microbiome is affected by your nervous system too. Signs Your Vaginal Microbiome Might Be Out of Whack If you notice any of the following, it could be a sign your balance is off: Persistent or recurrent thrush or BV Unusual discharge (especially if it smells “fishy” or is grey/green) Itching, burning, or irritation Increased UTIs or urinary discomfort That said, everyone's normal is different. If something feels new or uncomfortable, check in with your GP or sexual health clinic. How to Support a Healthy Vaginal Microbiome Good news: you don’t need to do anything drastic. In fact, less is often more. 1. Avoid Over-Cleansing No douching. No scented soaps. Just warm water externally, or a pH-balanced, fragrance-free wash if you prefer something extra. 2. Wear Breathable Underwear Cotton underwear and going commando at night can help reduce moisture build-up. 3. Practice Safe Sex Condoms can help protect your microbiome, especially if you’re prone to BV or UTIs after sex. 4. Consider Probiotics There’s growing research into vaginal-specific probiotics (like Lactobacillus crispatus) to help maintain balance – especially if you’ve recently taken antibiotics. 5. Support Your Overall Health A healthy gut, balanced hormones, and good sleep all contribute to a happy vaginal microbiome. Everything's connected. The Bottom Line: It’s Time We Talked About Vaginal Health More Openly Your vaginal microbiome isn’t something to be ashamed of or anxious about – it’s just part of your overall health. Understanding how it works empowers you to spot changes early, seek the right support, and take care of your body in a way that works with it, not against it. At Femme Health, we believe that vaginal health is just as important as mental health, menstrual health, or gut health. No shame. No stigma. Just straight-up support and science-backed advice.
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What Every Woman Should Know About Perimenopause
Let’s Talk About Perimenopause (Before It Sneaks Up on You) Perimenopause isn’t something we learn about in school. It’s not usually dinner party conversation. And for most women, it doesn’t come with a heads-up. One day your cycle’s doing its usual thing, and the next, things feel... off. At femme, we believe knowledge is power – especially when it comes to your hormones. So here’s your no-nonsense guide to what actually happens during perimenopause, when it starts, and how to support your body (and mind) through the transition. First Things First: What Is Perimenopause? Perimenopause is the phase before menopause, when your hormones (mainly oestrogen and progesterone) start to fluctuate. This stage can last anywhere from a few months to over 10 years. Yep, really. It usually starts in your 40s, but for some women, changes begin in their mid-30s. Key point: You’re not in menopause until you’ve gone 12 months without a period. Until then, you’re in the perimenopausal phase – and that’s where a lot of the real shifts happen. Common Signs of Perimenopause (That Often Go Unnoticed) Every woman’s experience is different, but some of the most common symptoms include: Irregular periods (longer, shorter, heavier, or skipped) Mood changes (hello, PMS 2.0) Sleep disturbances Brain fog or forgetfulness Hot flushes or night sweats Vaginal dryness or changes in libido Increased anxiety or low mood Fatigue that hits harder than usual These symptoms are caused by fluctuating hormone levels – not because your body is “failing” or “breaking down.” When Does Perimenopause Start? There’s no universal start date, but research shows that hormonal changes can begin up to 10 years before menopause. That means some women start noticing subtle shifts in their late 30s, though the average age is early-to-mid 40s. Important: You don’t need to wait for your periods to stop before seeking support. If things feel different, it’s worth talking to your GP, especially if symptoms are affecting your quality of life. How to Support Your Body Through Perimenopause There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but there are evidence-based ways to navigate this chapter with more ease and less stress. 1. Track Your Cycle and Symptoms Understanding your baseline helps you notice changes earlier. Apps, journals, or wearable devices (like Tempdrop) can help track patterns in sleep, mood, cycle length, and more. 2. Prioritise Sleep and Stress Management Easier said than done, we know. But sleep and stress are both closely linked to hormone regulation. Small changes like cutting back on caffeine, creating a wind-down routine, or trying mindfulness can make a real difference. 3. Nourish Yourself Properly Blood sugar stability, healthy fats, protein, and fibre are your hormone allies. You don’t need to overhaul your diet overnight – just start paying attention to what gives you energy (and what drains it). 4. Consider Supplements (If Needed) Vitamin D, magnesium, omega-3s, and B vitamins are commonly recommended during perimenopause. Always check with a healthcare professional before starting anything new – your body, your rules. 5. Get Clued Up on HRT and Other Options Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is one option – and for many women, it can be life-changing. It’s not the only route, but it’s worth understanding so you can make informed decisions when the time comes. The Takeaway: Perimenopause Isn’t the End of Anything – It’s Just a New Chapter Perimenopause doesn’t mean you’re “getting old.” It doesn’t mean you’re broken. And it definitely doesn’t mean you just have to “put up with it.” This is a time to get curious about your health, not scared of it. The more you know, the more empowered you are to advocate for yourself – whether that’s at your GP’s office, in your relationships, or just with your own body. At femme, we’re here to make sure you’re not caught off guard. No drama. No doom. Just the facts, support, and tools you need to feel informed and in control.
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Reserve & Renew: The Fertility Support Bundle I Wish I Had at the Start of My Journey
In this heartfelt piece, Sarah, co-founder of femme, shares her personal fertility journey and the challenges she faced navigating it alone. She introduces the Reserve & Renew Bundle, a thoughtfully curated collection of fertility-supporting products she wishes she'd had at the start - designed to empower women with insights into egg health, ovarian reserve, and ovulation tracking. With products like the proov Reserve Test, OVUM supplements, and Tempdrop™, the bundle offers essential tools to help others feel informed, supported, and less alone in their journey.
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Understanding Pre-Eclampsia: What You Need to Know
Pregnancy comes with plenty of questions, and sometimes a few worries too. One condition you might hear mentioned during antenatal appointments is pre-eclampsia. It sounds serious — and it can be — but with the right information and good care, it’s manageable. Here’s what you need to know. What Is Pre-Eclampsia? Pre-eclampsia is a condition that can develop during pregnancy, usually after 20 weeks. It’s linked to problems with the placenta — the organ that supplies your baby with nutrients and oxygen. The main signs are high blood pressure and protein in your urine, though other symptoms can also occur. Pre-eclampsia affects around 6% of pregnancies in the UK and ranges from mild to severe. Most women will have mild cases, and with regular monitoring, both mum and baby do well. In more serious cases, pre-eclampsia can pose risks to your health and your baby’s development, so early detection and care are really important. What Should You Look Out For? Pre-eclampsia doesn’t always come with obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages — which is why routine blood pressure and urine checks at antenatal appointments are so important. But there are signs to be aware of. Let your midwife or GP know if you experience any of the following: Persistent headaches that don’t go away with paracetamol Blurred vision or seeing flashing lights Swelling, especially in your face, hands or around your eyes (a bit of swelling is normal in pregnancy, but sudden or severe swelling should be checked) Pain just below the ribs, particularly on the right side Sudden weight gain (caused by fluid retention) Feeling generally unwell, or more tired than usual Remember — you’re never wasting anyone’s time by raising concerns. What Can You Expect From Your Midwife or GP? In the UK, you should have regular checks during pregnancy to monitor for pre-eclampsia. This includes: Blood pressure checks at every appointment Urine tests to look for protein Blood tests if there are concerns If pre-eclampsia is suspected, you’ll likely be referred for further assessment at hospital. This doesn’t necessarily mean an emergency — it’s just about monitoring things more closely. Depending on the severity, you might need: More frequent appointments or scans Medication to lower your blood pressure Admission to hospital for monitoring in more serious cases Early delivery if your health or your baby’s health is at risk Most women with pre-eclampsia go on to deliver healthy babies, often with a bit of extra support and planning. What Causes It? The exact cause of pre-eclampsia isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought to relate to how the placenta develops. Some factors that increase your risk include: First pregnancy Family history of pre-eclampsia Having high blood pressure or kidney problems before pregnancy Being over 40 Having a BMI of over 35 Carrying twins or more If you’re at higher risk, your midwife might recommend taking low-dose aspirin from 12 weeks of pregnancy to help reduce your chances of developing the condition. A Final Reassurance Pre-eclampsia can sound daunting, but the key message is this: you’re not expected to spot or manage it alone. That’s why regular antenatal care is so important — your midwife is there to check for signs and act early if anything seems off. Trust your instincts, and speak up if something doesn’t feel right. You deserve to be listened to and supported — and the earlier a concern is picked up, the better the outcome for you and your baby. References NHS. Pre-eclampsia. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pre-eclampsia Tommy’s. What is pre-eclampsia? Available at: https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information/pregnancy-complications/pre-eclampsia NICE. Hypertension in pregnancy: diagnosis and management (NG133). Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng133
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Male Infertility: Why We Need to Talk About It
When we talk about fertility, the focus is almost always on women; their age, their cycles, their eggs. But here’s the thing: in up to 50% of infertility cases, male factor infertility is involved. It’s not just a "women’s issue". It’s a people issue; and yet, we don’t talk about it enough. At femme health, we’re all about open, honest conversations about reproductive health — and that includes shining a light on the silent struggles men are facing too. So let’s get into it: what is male infertility, why is there so little awareness, and how are toxic masculinity and social pressures keeping men in the dark? So... What Actually Is Male Infertility? Male infertility is when a man has a reduced chance of getting a partner pregnant. It’s often linked to problems with sperm — whether that’s low sperm count, poor motility (movement), shape (morphology), or issues with how sperm are produced or delivered. It can also be caused by things like: Hormonal imbalances Infections or past injuries Varicocele (enlarged veins in the testicles) Lifestyle factors — think smoking, alcohol, high stress, poor diet, or even heat exposure from things like saunas or laptops on laps Here’s the bit most people don’t know: global sperm counts have dropped by more than 50% in the last 40 years. Yet somehow, conversations about fertility rarely include men. The Awareness Gap: Why Aren’t We Talking About This? There’s still a widespread belief — even among healthcare professionals — that fertility is mostly a “women’s problem”. This means men are often tested later (if at all), get fewer resources, and feel like they’re not even in the fertility conversation. This lack of awareness leads to: Delayed diagnosis and treatment Frustration and confusion Mental health struggles that go unnoticed Couples blaming themselves or each other In short? It’s not good for anyone. The Toxic Masculinity Factor Let’s talk about the elephant in the room: toxic masculinity. That outdated idea that men have to be stoic, strong, hypersexual, and basically emotionless. Male fertility issues often get tied up with feelings of shame, emasculation, or “not being man enough.” And because fertility is so wrapped up in ideas of virility and strength, men can feel like talking about it threatens their identity. We hear phrases like: “Shooting blanks” “He’s not a real man” “Just keep trying” None of that helps. In fact, it makes things worse — pushing men into silence and stopping them from getting the help they need. The Pressure to Be Fine Even when men do know there’s a problem, many feel they’re not “allowed” to talk about it. They’re expected to be the calm, supportive partner while their own emotions take a backseat. There’s pressure to: Stay strong Not cry “Fix it” without asking for help Keep everything bottled up This emotional suppression isn’t just unhealthy — it’s unsustainable. Fertility struggles can affect confidence, relationships, and mental health. And when men feel like they can’t speak up, they suffer alone. So What Can We Do About It? We need to change the narrative. Male infertility isn’t a rare, embarrassing anomaly — it’s a common medical issue, and one that deserves just as much attention, empathy, and support as female infertility. Here’s how we move forward: Start the conversation — openly, and without judgment Include men in fertility education from the beginning Challenge harmful language and stereotypes Offer mental health support tailored for men Encourage testing early, not as a last resort And most of all, we need to remind people that fertility struggles are not a personal failure — they’re a health issue. Final Thoughts Male infertility is real. It’s common. And it deserves to be taken seriously. The sooner we can ditch the shame and start talking about it, the better off everyone will be — men, women, partners, and future families included. At femme health, we believe in breaking taboos, busting myths, and creating space for all reproductive health conversations — and that includes the ones we haven’t been having enough of. Let’s keep talking.
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In The Press
Simplify Your Fertility Tracking with Tempdrop
Take the guesswork out of cycle tracking with Tempdrop, the smart wearable thermometer that fits seamlessly into your routine. Designed to learn your unique patterns, it provides accurate, reliable insights without the hassle of early wake-ups or daily charts.
