Episode 13

full
Published on:

23rd Jul 2025

The Male Bag | The Pressure to Talk, Masculinity, Fertility & Mental Health

In this deeply personal episode of The Male Bag, Shaun tackles some of the most challenging questions men face during fertility struggles, from feeling pressured to talk to rebuilding masculine identity after diagnosis.

In this episode, Shaun reveals:

Permission to Stay Silent: It's perfectly acceptable not to want to discuss fertility struggles constantly. The key is communicating your need for space rather than shutting down completely, saying "I need time to process internally before I can express externally."

Masculinity Beyond Sperm Count: Fertility struggles can feel like an attack on masculinity, but Shaun emphasises that "masculinity is not defined by sperm count." He shares how asking his wife "who am I as a man?" helped him rebuild his identity from core character traits rather than reproductive ability.

Staying Hopeful Through Setbacks: Hope isn't about pretending everything is fine - it's about knowing you're doing all you can, even on difficult days. Shaun advocates for "taking a knee" when needed, allowing yourself bad days, and remembering how far you've come since the beginning.

The Reality of Mental Health: Shaun courageously shares that 40% of fertility patients experience suicidal thoughts, and opens up about his father's suicide a year ago, emphasising the critical importance of male mental health support and community.

Building Community: From NeXYs support groups to in-person events, Shaun highlights how connecting with other men experiencing similar struggles can provide the community and understanding that might make all the difference.

If you're struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out:

  • Samaritans: 116 123 (24/7)
  • CALM: 0800 58 58 58
  • NHS: 111 (UK)

Have questions or experiences about your fertility journey?

Share them with us!

📧 Email: themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com

📷 Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast

📖 Web: nexysfertility.com

Don't forget to like, rate, and review wherever you get your podcasts!

DISCLAIMER: The content in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or qualified healthcare provider.

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About the Podcast

The Male Fertility Podcast
A podcast for men experiencing fertility issues, by men who experienced fertility issues.
Welcome to The Male Fertility Podcast, a show hosted by Ciaran and Shaun - two men who have walked the challenging path of fertility struggles themselves. With a mission to break the silence and stigma surrounding male fertility issues, they share their personal stories, insights, and knowledge to provide support, education, and inspiration to men facing similar challenges.

In this unique and underrepresented podcast, you'll discover why this show is a crucial resource for anyone dealing with male fertility concerns.

Male fertility is often a hushed topic, leaving many feeling isolated and uninformed. The Male Fertility Podcast opens a candid and empathetic dialogue, letting you know you're not alone in this journey. Whether you're a man navigating fertility issues or a partner supporting your loved one, this podcast offers a wealth of information and encouragement.

Ciaran and Shaun share their personal stories, offering a raw and authentic look into their fertility struggles. This unfiltered approach makes their content relatable and provides a genuine connection with the audience.

In addition to the hosts' experiences, The Male Fertility Podcast brings in guest speakers who share their own fertility journeys, adding diverse perspectives and stories to the conversation. The show also features expert speakers who provide valuable insights and medical guidance to help listeners better understand the complexities of male fertility.

This podcast is proudly sponsored by ExSeed Health (www.exseedhealth.com), a leading name in the field of male fertility. ExSeed Health have created a new wave of fertility testing products, including their at-home sperm tests, to empower individuals with the knowledge they need to take control of their fertility journey.

Stay connected with The Male Fertility Podcast on Instagram: @themalefertilitypodcast. Follow us for updates, inspiration, and a supportive community of individuals who understand what you're going through.

Or drop us an email - themalefertilitypodcast@gmail.com

Don't miss out on this invaluable resource for male fertility issues. Subscribe today, and together, we can break the silence and provide the support and education men need during their fertility journey. You are not alone.

About your host

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Ciaran Hannington