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Experiencing male infertility: What happens when pregnancy doesn’t come easily

Experiencing male infertility: What happens when pregnancy doesn’t come easily

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 In this episode of Dad Starts Now, host Nick West speaks with fertility counsellor Narelle Dickinson and former AFL player Reece Conca to unpack what happens when pregnancy doesn’t come easily. Reece shares his personal story of being diagnosed with male infertility and the emotional rollercoaster he and his partner faced on their path to parenthood. Narelle offers expert advice on navigating the mental and relational impacts of infertility, and why opening up can make all the difference. You'll learn:What men go through during infertility and how to cope with shame, guilt and anxietyWhy communication is crucial during infertility and how couples can strengthen theirsYou're not alone — many men and couples experience infertilityHow opening up to your support network can help shift the conversation around male infertilityTimestamps05:56 Reece on seeking help and support09:08 The emotional toll of diagnosis11:54 Communication in relationships during infertility15:12 Navigating medical procedures and options like micro-tese surgery18:01 The impact of changing specialists20:53 Reflections on the journey and moving forward37:16 Embracing fatherhood38:53 Messages for men facing infertility43:18 The role of fertility counselling44:37 Men's emotional responses to infertility46:01 Breaking the stigma of male infertility48:25 Processing emotions and seeking support52:05 Navigating relationships during infertility55:27 Opening up about emotions59:16 Changing the narrative around male infertility01:01:11 Psychological advice for men struggling with infertilityLearn more about men's preconception health at dadstartsnow.com.au.Got questions or feedback? Email us at podcasts@healthymale.org.auThis podcast was created by Healthy Male — an Australian not-for-profit that provides evidence-based information on men's health. You can find more from us on Instagram and TikTok.We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which this podcast was recorded — the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation, and the Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples listening today.This podcast is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment and personalised medical guidance.
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