We're Talking About Fertility More Than Ever... So Why Is It Still Taboo? | The Family Table #3

Are we more open about fertility than ever before, or is infertility still a taboo subject? In Episode 3 of The Family Table Podcast, we explore how conversations around fertility, IVF, miscarriage and reproductive health have changed over the generations — and why some people still find it difficult to open up. From the growing visibility of fertility struggles on social media to the emotional impact of infertility, we discuss whether society is truly becoming more understanding. We also explore the pressure on women to become mothers, cultural expectations around having children, and why choosing not to have children is increasingly recognised as a valid decision. But what about men? Why can discussing male infertility and sperm health still feel uncomfortable? And what happens when someone finally opens up about their fertility struggles, only to become the subject of workplace jokes? It's an honest conversation about fertility, stigma, mental health and the importance of creating safe spaces where people feel comfortable sharing their experiences. *In this episode, we discuss:* How conversations about fertility have changed over the generations Miscarriage, IVF and the importance of sharing experiences Fertility stigma and mental health Social media and the decision to share or protect your privacy Cultural expectations and the pressure to have children Male infertility and the challenges men face when opening up Why empathy, education and understanding matter *We'd love to hear your thoughts!* Do you think we're more open about fertility today, or is there still a stigma surrounding infertility? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments. Please remember to be kind and respectful, as these conversations can be deeply personal. If you enjoyed the discussion, like the video, subscribe to The Family Table Podcast and turn on notifications for more conversations about family, relationships, parenthood and the experiences that shape our lives. *Chapters:* 00:00 Are we more open about fertility? 01:14 Opening up about miscarriage 02:19 Having children later in life 03:12 Understanding infertility and breaking the stigma 04:15 Social media, IVF and sharing fertility journeys 05:28 Fertility and mental health 06:19 Why people keep their fertility journeys private 07:21 Education and changing attitudes 09:18 The pressure on women to have children 11:15 Cultural expectations and family pressure 13:10 Choosing not to have children 14:45 Why men struggle to talk about infertility 16:24 Why women may find it easier to open up 19:42 Men, friendships and emotional vulnerability 23:50 When infertility becomes a workplace joke 25:50 Final thoughts and the importance of kindness #Fertility #InfertilityAwareness #TheFamilyTablePodcast