Threat to Masculinity: Introducing a Nursing Diagnosis Grounded in Men's Infertility Experiences.

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this article is to introduce Men's Infertility-Related Threat to Masculinity as a proposed nursing diagnosis that captures the unique psychosocial and identity-related responses of men experiencing infertility.Data SourcesThe analysis draws on two qualitative studies exploring men's experiences of infertility in Iran, supported by international literature on male infertility, stigma, and masculinity.Data SynthesisA concept analysis approach was applied to identify the defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents of Men's Infertility-Related Threat to Masculinity. The findings were synthesized into a diagnostic proposal consistent with the NANDA-I format, including label, definition, defining characteristics, related factors, at-risk populations, associated conditions, outcomes, and interventions. The analysis demonstrated that this phenomenon is distinct from existing nursing diagnoses such as ineffective coping or disturbed self-concept.ConclusionsMen's Infertility-Related Threat to Masculinity represents a culturally embedded and gender-specific human response that is not adequately captured in current nursing taxonomies. Recognizing this diagnosis provides a framework for systematic assessment and intervention, ensuring that men's reproductive health experiences are visible within nursing knowledge.Implications for Nursing PracticeAcknowledging Men's Infertility-Related Threat to Masculinity equips nurses with the diagnostic language to identify and address men's psychosocial struggles in infertility care. It supports culturally sensitive and couple-centered practice, guides targeted interventions such as identity support, stigma reduction, and care coordination with reproductive health specialists, and strengthens nursing's role in promoting holistic well-being.