In this Male Bag episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, host Ciaran answers listener questions about navigating the emotional and practical challenges of the fertility journey.

In this episode, Ciaran addresses:

Time Pressures: Ciaran discusses how male fertility does decline with age (particularly after 40), but at a much slower rate than female fertility. He emphasises the importance of acknowledging time-related pressures and being proactive with lifestyle changes to control what you can.

Relationship Changes: Drawing from his own experience, Ciaran explains how fertility challenges affected his relationship with his wife, causing them to drift apart initially. He shares how open communication ultimately strengthened their bond and offers advice for maintaining connection during difficult times.

Feeling Overlooked by Healthcare: Ciaran candidly discusses how men are often overlooked in fertility treatment, sharing his experience of being referred to as "and partner" in clinic communications despite male factor being the primary issue. He emphasises the importance of self-advocacy and the need for systematic change.

Things He Wishes He'd Known: Ciaran reflects on what he would have done differently, including seeking help sooner, being more proactive about testing, and understanding that fertility treatment is a marathon, not a sprint.

Ciaran emphasises that while the podcast offers guidance and support, it's not a replacement for professional medical advice. Listeners are encouraged to submit their own questions via email or Instagram.

Sponsors: This podcast is sponsored by Impryl® - Fertility Family. Impryl® is a unique supplement for conception recommended by fertility specialists for both men and women. Visit FertilityFamily.co.uk and use code MFpodcast10 for 10% off.

Contact Us:

📧 Email: themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com

📷 Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast

Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!

DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

In this comprehensive episode of The Male Fertility Podcast, hosts Ciaran and Shaun speak with Dr Jonathan Andrews about testosterone - the hormone that affects everything from fertility and muscle mass to mental health and motivation.

In this episode, Johnny reveals:

What Testosterone Actually Does: Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone responsible for the development and maintenance of all male characteristics - from muscle mass and bone density to libido and mood regulation. It's literally the hormone that transforms boys into men during puberty and maintains those characteristics throughout life.

The Age Factor: From mid-thirties to forties, testosterone levels typically decline by 1-2% per year. Unlike the dramatic "cliff drop" of female menopause, male testosterone decline is gradual - so subtle you might not notice until symptoms become significant.

Why Young Men Can Have Low Testosterone: Age isn't the only factor. Younger men are increasingly presenting with low testosterone due to lifestyle factors, obesity, stress, poor sleep, environmental factors, and medical conditions. Don't assume you're "too young" to have low testosterone.

The Symptoms You Might Miss: Brain fog, fatigue, loss of morning erections, decreased libido, difficulty building muscle, increased body fat, mood changes, and reduced motivation can all be signs of low testosterone. Many men dismiss these as "just getting older" when they could be treatable.

Why Lifestyle Changes Sometimes Fail: Even when men adopt "testosterone-friendly" lifestyles - better diet, exercise, reduced alcohol - levels can sometimes drop further. This happens because weight loss can temporarily reduce free testosterone, and other factors like stress or illness can override lifestyle improvements.

The Diagnosis Process: Proper testosterone diagnosis requires two blood tests at least 4-6 weeks apart, taken in the early morning when levels are highest. Single tests aren't reliable due to natural fluctuations, stress, illness, and circadian rhythms.

TRT vs Underground Alternatives: With growing awareness of testosterone's importance, some men seek treatment through unregulated channels. Johnny emphasises the importance of proper medical supervision, licensed medications, and comprehensive health monitoring.

The Mental Health Connection: Low testosterone can cause depression-like symptoms. Many men are prescribed antidepressants when the root cause might be hormonal. Addressing testosterone deficiency can be life-changing for mood, motivation, and overall mental health.

Johnny emphasises that testosterone affects virtually every aspect of male health and wellbeing. His advice is clear: if you're experiencing symptoms, don't assume it's just aging - get tested by qualified professionals who understand the complexity of hormone health.

Connect with Dr Jonathan Andrews:

@Ted's Health Website: tedshealth.com

Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey?

Share them with us!

📧 Email: themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com

📷 Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast

📖 Web: nexysfertility.com

Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!

DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

In this deeply personal episode of The Male Bag, Shaun tackles some of the most challenging questions men face during fertility struggles, from feeling pressured to talk to rebuilding masculine identity after diagnosis.

In this episode, Shaun reveals:

Permission to Stay Silent: It's perfectly acceptable not to want to discuss fertility struggles constantly. The key is communicating your need for space rather than shutting down completely, saying "I need time to process internally before I can express externally."

Masculinity Beyond Sperm Count: Fertility struggles can feel like an attack on masculinity, but Shaun emphasises that "masculinity is not defined by sperm count." He shares how asking his wife "who am I as a man?" helped him rebuild his identity from core character traits rather than reproductive ability.

Staying Hopeful Through Setbacks: Hope isn't about pretending everything is fine - it's about knowing you're doing all you can, even on difficult days. Shaun advocates for "taking a knee" when needed, allowing yourself bad days, and remembering how far you've come since the beginning.

The Reality of Mental Health: Shaun courageously shares that 40% of fertility patients experience suicidal thoughts, and opens up about his father's suicide a year ago, emphasising the critical importance of male mental health support and community.

Building Community: From NeXYs support groups to in-person events, Shaun highlights how connecting with other men experiencing similar struggles can provide the community and understanding that might make all the difference.

If you're struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out:

• Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)
• CALM: 0800 58 58 58
• NHS: 111 (UK)

Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey?

Share them with us!

📧 Email: themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com

📷 Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast

📖 Web: nexysfertility.com

Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!

DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.