Both infertility and tattoos carry stigmas. A woman unable to conceive a child in some cultures may be rejected extreme feelings of disappointment and anxiety. New laws now recognize the need to protect women and men trying to conceive, whether naturally or through infertility treatments, by providing medical leave and access to advanced treatments.
The emotional distress related to stigma of infertility is sometimes portrayed through science fiction, both for entertainment and to communicate the effects to a general public. In some cases the portrayal is a bit far-fetched, such as inter-specie reproduction, and may cause negative perceptions about infertility treatments and laser use.
Similarly, tattoos and lasers are often used in sci-fi entertainment to portray social conditions and stigmas. Some portions of society think that those with tattoos are egotistical, gangsters, of lower education, or are anti-social. Sci-fi or geek tattoos are a personal expression of individual interest, belief in a better future, or a hope and dream brought into fruition. They may also depict mutant-type genetic conditions related to disability, such as excessive hair growth, for shock or for acceptance of difference.
When social trends change, peoples’ realities evolve, or when hopes and dreams are unfulfilled, people may want expressive tattoos removed, such as through laser tattoo removal. Or they may want to enhance their looks with laser hair removal. Understanding the role and reality of treatments using advanced laser technologies in society, whether for fertility, tattoos, health or aesthetics, can improve perceptions and reduce stigma.