Ep 3 | Sexual health | Optimising male sexual health, function and fertility

This season of It Can't Hurt To Ask, we're taking a deep dive into your men's health questions and concerns.

This episode, we’re talking about men’s sexual health, function and fertility. Our featured expert is urologist and Professor of Surgery, Dr Eric Chung, who shares his deep knowledge of what affects men’s sexual and reproductive health.

You'll also hear from Queensland men, Phoenix and Greg, who asks what happens to your sexual health as you age.

For anyone who is sexually active, struggling with sexual performance, trying to conceive or avoid unwanted pregnancy, this episode is for you. We will explain the science and physiological factors behind libido and erectile dysfunction, sperm health, sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and more.

How can men optimise sexual function? What long-term effects do STIs have on our health? Is the fact that you’ve never had a pregnancy scare actually a sign of infertility? What can we do to bio hack our sperm? Listen to find out.

If you'd like to learn more about men's health, tune in to our brand-new season. Keep your ears open for our next episode, where we explore alcohol and substance use.

Feel free to leave us a review too—we'd love to hear your thoughts.

Episode resources:

Stop the Rise

STIs are on the rise, often because of unprotected sexual activity and many infections go undetected. Stop the Rise provides free resources and information about how to prevent catching STIs (did someone say free condoms?) and what to do when you need an STI check.

Some STIs can go unnoticed, but they can impact your overall and long-term health. If you’re sexually active, using a condom with water-based lube and getting regular sexual health check-ups are the best way to protect yourself and your partner/s from STIs.

Struggling with erectile dysfunction or infertility?

If you're having a hard time with erectile dysfunction, it's important to check in with your GP. Many things can affect impotence, so seeking professional advice can help to identify and address the root cause.

When it comes to fertility challenges, both partners can be affected. It's important that both parties see the GP to determine whether specialist help is needed. Infertility can be an emotionally and mentally challenging experience. Depending on your situation, you may consider seeking support from a fertility counsellor.

Emergency care in Queensland

If you’re not sure if your medical condition requires emergency care, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84). Registered nurses are available 24 hours a day. They will advise you on what to do and if you need to go to a GP, pharmacy or emergency department.

In an emergency call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.

Virtual emergency care is also available in Queensland. Visit our Virtual Emergency Care Service between 8am - 10pm for free specialist emergency care services, by telephone or video conferencing. You can also access the Health Direct symptom checker.