Fertility might not be the first topic that comes to mind when educating young people about health—but it’s an essential one. Understanding how their bodies work, what affects their reproductive health, and what choices they might face in the future empowers young people to make informed decisions, challenge misconceptions, and respect their bodies and others’.
Teaching fertility doesn’t have to be awkward. In fact, with the right approach, it can be an empowering and age-appropriate part of their learning journey. Here are some top tips from a fertility clinic in London for opening up honest, healthy conversations about fertility with young people.
- Start Early, Build Gradually
Fertility education doesn’t need to begin with complex biological terms. Start with the basics—body changes, puberty, periods, and reproduction—and build knowledge progressively as they grow.
Why it matters:
- Helps normalise the topic from an early age.
- Allows for age-appropriate learning that evolves over time.
- Reduces fear or embarrassment when the topic comes up later in life.
- Use Inclusive and Respectful Language
Fertility looks different for everyone. Be mindful that not all young people identify with binary gender norms or traditional family structures.
Top tips:
- Use inclusive terms like “people who menstruate” or “those assigned female at birth” where appropriate.
- Acknowledge different paths to parenthood, including IVF, surrogacy, and adoption.
- Respect different cultural and personal beliefs around fertility.
- Cover Both Male and Female Fertility
Too often, fertility education focuses solely on girls and women. Boys and young men need to understand their reproductive health too.
Topics to cover:
- Sperm health and production.
- The impact of lifestyle on fertility for all genders.
- Shared responsibility in family planning and sexual health.
Helping all young people understand both sides of fertility promotes empathy, responsibility, and equality.
- Highlight the Impact of Lifestyle Choices
Fertility isn’t just about biology—factors like health, age, and habits also play a role. Teach young people how choices made now can influence future reproductive health.
Key messages:
- Smoking, alcohol, poor diet, and stress can affect fertility.
- Regular exercise and good mental health support reproductive wellbeing.
- STIs can damage fertility if left untreated—get regular check-ups.
Empowering teens with this knowledge helps them take charge of their health early on.
- Debunk Common Myths
Misinformation about fertility is everywhere—from playground rumours to social media myths.
Clarify things like:
- Fertility doesn’t automatically return after stopping contraception.
- Periods don’t always mean someone is fertile.
- You can get pregnant even if it’s your first time having sex.
Create a safe space for questions and curiosity—no topic is too silly to discuss.
- Discuss Timing, Planning, and Choice
Young people need to understand that having children is a choice—and so is waiting, not having children, or choosing other paths.
Encourage thoughtful reflection on:
- The reality of fertility declining with age.
- The options available (e.g. egg/sperm freezing, fertility treatments).
- The importance of respectful communication with future partners.
This builds a foundation for healthy, respectful decision-making in adulthood.
- Use Trusted Resources and Visual Aids
Visual tools, models, and age-appropriate diagrams can make complex fertility concepts more accessible and less intimidating.
Helpful ideas:
- Use videos or animations that explain reproductive health in simple terms.
- Share reliable websites and books for self-guided learning.
- Bring in guest speakers like healthcare professionals when appropriate.
- Make It a Two-Way Conversation
Young people need to feel heard, not lectured. Invite questions, respect privacy, and approach every conversation with empathy and openness.
Create a safe learning environment by:
- Avoiding shame-based language or judgment.
- Being honest when you don’t know the answer—and looking it up together.
- Reassuring them that it’s okay to feel confused, embarrassed, or unsure.
Teaching young people about fertility isn’t just about biology—it’s about giving them the knowledge and confidence to take care of their bodies, make informed decisions, and understand the world around them. By approaching it with openness, respect, and clarity, you help prepare them for a lifetime of self-awareness and healthy relationships.
Remember: the goal isn’t to pressure young people to think about parenthood—it’s to equip them with facts, foster body literacy, and give them the freedom to explore their own values and choices.
