Analysis of online discussion boards for male infertility. (22nd October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Beeder, Lauren; Samplaski, Mary K.
• Is Part Of: Andrologia. Volume 51:Number 11(2019)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2019-10-22
• Subjects: discussion boards -- male infertility -- online; Andrology -- Periodicals; Infertility, Male -- Periodicals; 616.69
• DOI: 10.1111/and.13422
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0303-4569

Abstract

Abstract: We aimed to identify what information patients and partners are seeking on male infertility forums. Online discussion boards were identified. Posts were analysed in three steps: open coding, axial coding and selective coding, to determine common themes. A total of 1, 118 posts were analysed. The majority of posts (20.2%) were related to "Questions about male fertility diagnosis and testing", with 47.8% asking for assistance interpreting semen analysis results. About 15.7% of posts were about "Feelings associated with male infertility", with 26.7% expressing anger or frustration, 26.1% encouraging hope, 21% seeking hope and 12.5% expressing fear. About 15.4% of posts were about "Lifestyle factors to improve male fertility", 24.4% of which were about vitamins and 6.4% about intercourse timing. About 15.4% of posts were about "Male infertility conditions", with 43% about semen parameters. Other themes included "Questions about male factor treatments", "Questions about assisted reproductive technologies (ART)", "Relationship issues", "Asking for advice", "Financial concerns" and "Information sharing". About 63.6% of posts were written by female partners [ t (1, 117) = 9.451, p < .001]. The most common posts posed questions about male fertility diagnosis and testing. Users discussed feelings involved in infertility, and counselling should be integrated. About 63.6% of posts were by partners, highlighting the importance of partners having access to infertility information.