In recent decades, studies have shown a significant decline in sperm quality and count. The average sperm count has fallen by 62% since the 1970s, impacting male fertility – a factor that is often overlooked in the broader conversation about parenthood and the declining birth rate in developed countries. 

In this engrossing long read, New Statesman associate editor Sophie McBain talks to men who have faced fertility issues and the people exploring the contested science behind them. Are environmental toxins a key factor, or exposure to prescription medicines in the womb? Does a historic focus on female fertility mean our understanding of male infertility is relatively new? And why, given the potentially catastrophic consequences of a global baby bust, is there not more political will to engage with the science?

Written and read by Sophie McBain.

This article originally appeared in the 26 May-1 June issue of the New Statesman. You can read the text version here.

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, you might also Sophie's other article: How did parenthood become an unaffordable luxury? Listen here: https://pod.fo/e/183b9b

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