In this episode of Fertility, Hormones & Hope, we shine a spotlight on the often-overlooked role of male fertility and why it deserves equal attention in the fertility journey. Joined by leading male fertility expert Jonathan Ramsay - a consultant urologist specialising in male fertility investigation and treatment with over 30 years’ experience he has helped to change the way that couple’s fertility is investigated and treated. We discuss how male factors contribute to up to 50% of fertility challenges, yet investigations frequently stop at a basic semen analysis. We explore why making a diagnosis matters, the limitations of IVF and ICSI as solutions, and how a more comprehensive approach can help uncover underlying causes of infertility. We also delve into the latest thinking around sperm DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress, the microbiome, environmental toxins, and lifestyle factors that influence sperm health. Importantly, we discuss how fertility can act as a marker of overall health and why improving male health before conception may benefit not only fertility outcomes but long-term wellbeing and the health of future generations. In this episode, we cover:
- Why male factors contribute to up to 50% of fertility challenges
- The limitations of IVF and ICSI in addressing underlying sperm health issues
- The importance of diagnosis-led male fertility investigations
- Sperm DNA fragmentation and oxidative stress explained
- How diet, lifestyle, and environmental exposures affect sperm quality
- The emerging role of the microbiome in male fertility
- The link between sperm health and overall health outcomes
- Practical strategies to optimise fertility before conception
- The impact of plastics, endocrine disruptors, and the “exposome”
- What the latest WHO and NICE guidance means for male fertility care
