What exactly is reproductive health and what does it all mean?

Reproductive health is a really broad term that can include many different conditions. Since it's the bread and butter of what we do at Fertifa, we wrote this article to help demystify it for you.

Put simply, reproductive health refers to the state or condition of either the male or female reproductive systems (the biological systems involved in reproduction).

Male reproductive systems include:

• The testes
• The penis
• Seminal vesicles
• Prostate gland

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Female reproductive systems include:

• The ovaries
• Fallopian tubes
• Uterus
• Cervix
• Vagina

As well as physical reproductive systems, the term reproductive health can also be used to describe associated services and treatments. You may hear it used to describe reproductive healthcare services, family planning, maternal and prenatal care, sexual health, hormonal health, prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted infections, support for infertility, pregnancy loss, and safe and healthy sexual practices. 

What are the signs of “good” reproductive health? 

Unless you’re having frequent check-ups, assessments, and tests (and who has the time!), you won’t be sure of the exact state of your reproductive health. However, there are mental and physical signs that indicate whether you’re in good reproductive health or not. These signals can be connected to menopause, women’s health, men’s health, fertility, and more. Here are some of the main indicators of good reproductive health:

You have regular menstrual cycles

A regular menstrual cycle in people with female reproductive systems is a good indicator of a healthy hormonal balance and ovulation.

You aren’t presenting symptoms of reproductive health conditions

Fibroids, endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) are just some of the reproductive health conditions that can have major impacts on anyone with female reproductive organs. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms so you know what to look out for and when to see your doctor. If you’re unsure, you can check out some of our guides here:

Fibroids

Endometriosis

PCOS

You aren't experiencing sexual dysfunction

Sexual dysfunction can be upsetting and frustrating. Thankfully, treatments do exist, so be sure to see a doctor or nurse if you experience erectile dysfunction, premature/delayed ejaculation, or other related problems so they can find the right treatment plan for you.

‍43% of women and 31% of men report some sort of sexual dysfunction

You have no noticeable symptoms of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

A lot of the time, people will not exhibit any symptoms of STIs, so the only way to know for sure that you don't have one is through regular testing. This page gives recommendations on how frequently you should be getting tested and this one can help you find your nearest sexual health clinic. Remember, the best way to protect yourself against STIs is by practicing safer sex. For more information on STIs, their symptoms and how to protect yourself from them, and the most effective methods of contraception including implants and intrauterine devices, please visit this NHS page.

You’re able to reproduce without major or lasting difficulties that require medical assistance

Of course, this only applies to people trying to conceive, but an inability to conceive after a year of trying is the most natural indicator of fertility struggles and an underlying reproductive health issue. Infertility can be male factor (low sperm count, motility, or morphology) or female factor (poor egg quality or low egg count).

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At Fertifa, we are the leading reproductive healthcare provider in the UK and Europe. We support your employees through their biggest health challenges, when they need it the most. If you're looking to implement reproductive health benefits for your employees, get in touch with our team who can talk you through how this works at Fertifa and the significant and potentially transformative impact this can have on your employees and organisation 💜