AM Medical Centre Opens Conversation on IVF, Fertility and the Need to Break Social Stigma
Experts, actors, wellness professionals and media voices discuss infertility, emotional wellbeing and informed fertility choices in Kolkata
By Suman Munshi | IBG NEWS
Kolkata, September 25, 2026:
AM Medical Centre organised an engaging panel discussion at its Southern Avenue campus, bringing together medical professionals, artists, wellness experts and media representatives to discuss the social and emotional dimensions of infertility and IVF.
Titled “IVF: Breaking the Stigma, Embracing Parenthood,” the programme sought to encourage more open conversations about infertility, address misconceptions surrounding in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), and emphasise the importance of approaching fertility treatment with empathy and informed decision-making.
The discussion brought together Dr. Moon Chattoraj, Director of AM Medical Centre; Dr. Kausiki Ray Sarkar, Head of the IVF Department; actress Debadrita Basu; actor Ridhish Chowdhury; life coach Reshmi Ray; and journalist and writer Sneha Sengupta.
The panel examined infertility from medical, emotional and social perspectives, with speakers highlighting the importance of timely professional guidance, supportive relationships and greater public understanding of fertility treatment.
Infertility should not be a silent struggle
Opening the session, Dr. Moon Chattoraj said that infertility should be recognised as a medical condition rather than a source of shame or self-blame.
He stressed that IVF should not be viewed as a failure, but as an advancement in medical science that has enabled many families to pursue parenthood. He also emphasised the responsibility of healthcare providers to create an environment where people can ask questions, seek appropriate assistance and approach treatment without fear of social judgment.
Early consultation and reliable information
Dr. Kausiki Ray Sarkar focused on the clinical importance of seeking medical advice rather than allowing fear or misinformation to delay intervention.
She highlighted the value of early consultation, proper evaluation and personalised treatment planning, noting that accurate information can help individuals and couples make more informed decisions about their available options.
Breaking the pressure surrounding motherhood
Actress Debadrita Basu drew attention to the social expectations frequently placed on women regarding motherhood.
She spoke about the emotional pressures women can experience and stressed that conversations about fertility should include compassion and understanding alongside medical care.
Actor Ridhish Chowdhury highlighted that fertility should not be viewed exclusively as a women’s issue. He called for greater participation and emotional support from male partners, emphasising that fertility and parenthood are shared journeys within a couple.
Emotional wellbeing alongside medical treatment
Life coach Reshmi Ray addressed the psychological and emotional challenges associated with fertility treatment.
She emphasised the role of emotional resilience in helping individuals deal with uncertainty while maintaining dignity, confidence and self-belief during what can be a difficult personal journey.
Media can help change the conversation
Journalist and writer Sneha Sengupta discussed the influence of media narratives on public attitudes towards infertility and IVF.
She argued that responsible storytelling and open discussion can help replace secrecy and social discomfort with greater understanding, potentially making conversations around fertility more normal within society.
Interactive session addresses fertility myths
The programme concluded with an interactive audience session. Participants raised questions and discussed issues ranging from commonly held fertility misconceptions and mental wellbeing to the changing public acceptance of assisted reproductive technologies.
Through the initiative, AM Medical Centre reiterated its stated commitment to combining fertility care with public awareness and encouraging individuals and couples to approach parenthood with greater knowledge, confidence and emotional support.
The discussion underlined a broader message: conversations around infertility need to move beyond social judgment and silence, allowing medical information, emotional support and individual circumstances to have a greater place in decisions surrounding fertility and parenthood.
— Suman Munshi
IBG NEWS
