UK Urology Trainees' Exposure to Dedicated Infertility Training: How Good is That Training?

Abstract

The management of male-factor infertility (MFI) is one component of the UK urological training curriculum. Sub-specialising gynaecologists, training in reproductive medicine, are also expected to achieve similar competencies. This study aimed to determine UK urology trainees' views on the quality of their training in managing the infertile male. Methods: All UK urological trainees, identified through the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) or Joint Committee on Surgical Training (JCST) databases were e-mailed and invited to partake in an online survey, accessed through SurveyMonkey TM . Results: 176 (51.6%) urological trainees responded. Only 3.6% were assured of exposure to training in MFI investigation and management and <35% had any exposure to vasectomy reversal. 61.3% wanted infertility to make up some part of their work as a consultant but only 27% rated their training as adequate. 79.9% felt threatened by the potential loss of skills and patients to gynaecologists with sub-specialist interests in reproductive medicine. Conclusions: UK urological trainees reported that exposure to dedicated training in MFI is suboptimal and ultimately, insufficient to equip them for the consultant practice they desire. Urology training needs re-structuring to ensure retention of this skill set and to support the aspirations of interested urological trainees.

A Schematic Overview of the Current Status of Male Infertility Practice

“…In the United Kingdom, only 3.6% of urology residents cited exposure to training in male factor infertility. While the majority of residents reported a desire to treat male factor infertility in their future practice, only 27% felt prepared to do so [5]. In the United States, the number of clinical andrology fellowships has been steadily growing, improving resident exposure.…”