In this episode of Dad Starts Now, host Nick West is joined by endocrinologist, andrologist and fertility specialist, Dr Sarah Catford, to unpack the everyday habits that can make or break your sperm health. From diet and alcohol to chemical exposure and exercise, they explore how lifestyle choices impact male fertility and what men can do to boost their chances of starting a family. If you’ve ever wondered whether that weekend bender or dodgy takeaway habit could affect your future kids, this episode has answers.
You'll learn:
- The most common misconceptions men have about their fertility
- How lifestyle habits like diet, alcohol use, exercise and chemical exposure affect sperm health
- What makes a good preconception diet (and what to cut back on)
- Whether male fertility supplements are worth it
- When to start making lifestyle changes to improve your fertility
Timestamps
02:55 Common misconceptions about male infertility
05:04 Lifestyle factors that affect sperm quality
07:53 The role of diet and whether male fertility supplements work
12:48 How alcohol impacts sperm health
14:15 When to start making lifestyle changes
15:27 Environmental toxins, endocrine disruptors and male fertility
18:08 Preventing trauma, avoiding STIs and protecting your fertility
22:13 Key takeaways for future dads
Subscribe for season two
Follow us to get season two of Dad Starts Now when it drops on February 3. We'll unpack what it really means to prepare for fatherhood, with real stories and expert advice on everything from fertility and IVF to supporting your partner and taking care of your mental health.
Got questions or feedback?
Email us at [email protected]. We love getting your voice notes.
The end bits:
This 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, TikTok and our website.
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.
