Experiencing male infertility – what happens when pregnancy doesn’t come easily?

Episode 4: Experiencing male infertility – what happens when pregnancy doesn’t come easily?

In this episode

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 fiancée 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. If you’re feeling alone in this — you’re not. This episode is here to help.

Episode highlights

[05:56] Reece on seeking help and support

[09:08] The emotional toll of diagnosis

[11:54] Communication in relationships during infertility

[15:12] Navigating medical procedures and options like micro-tese surgery

[18:01] The impact of changing specialists

[20:53] Reflections on the journey and moving forward

[37:16] Embracing fatherhood

[38:53] Messages for men facing infertility

[43:18] The role of fertility counselling

[44:37] Men’s emotional responses to infertility

[46:01] Breaking the stigma of male infertility

[48:25] Processing emotions and seeking support

[52:05] Navigating relationships during infertility

[55:27] Opening up about emotions

[59:16] Changing the narrative around male infertility

[01:01:11] Psychological advice for men struggling with infertility

More episodes of Dad Starts Now

Episode 1: What is preconception health for men and why does it matter so much? Listen now

Episode 2: Sperm health and male fertility: The lifestyle habits that help (and hurt) Listen now

Episode 3: Investigating male infertility and the common underlying medical conditions that could be at play Listen now

Episode 5: Your health, your baby’s health: explaining epigenetics Listen now