S1 E6 • 37 minutes
The most common questions on men’s preconception health, answered
- Preconception health
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
Appearing in this episode
Reece Conca
Former Professional AFL Player
Narelle Dickinson
Clinical and Health Psychologist, Fertility Counsellor
