Testhim.. it's that simple! Understanding sperm tests with Ian Stones

In this episode of The Fertility Podcast, I’m joined by Ian Stones, co founder of Testhim, to talk about something that should be simple but still too often isn’t. Testing men.We talk a lot in fertility about women’s bodies, women’s hormones, women’s investigations. But male fertility accounts for around a third of infertility cases, and yet men are still frequently an afterthought.Ian and I explore when men should be tested, what those tests actually look like, why semen analysis is not always enough, and how men can advocate for themselves earlier in the process.If you are dealing with male factor infertility, recurrent loss, unexplained infertility, or you simply want to understand more about sperm health, this episode is for you.And if you are the partner trying to get a reluctant man to engage with this conversation, please share it.What we discuss in this episode:Why male fertility testing is often delayedWhen to start investigating male fertilityWhy semen analysis is only the starting pointThe role of sperm DNA fragmentation in recurrent miscarriageWhat a varicocele is and how it affects sperm qualityWhy testicular scans matterHow infections and oxidative stress impact sperm healthThe importance of seeing a male fertility specialist, not just a general urologistWhy lifestyle changes should happen at least three months before trying to conceiveThe impact of heat, cycling, tight underwear and hot tubsAlcohol, diet and BMI in sperm healthWhy men need to know their anatomy and check for lumps and changesThe emotional experience of male infertility and feeling like the spare partHow proactive testing could reduce repeated failed IVF cyclesWhat Testhim actually doesTesthim offers:Advanced male fertility testingA detailed male fertility questionnaire to build a personalised risk profileSperm DNA fragmentation testingOxidative stress testingTesticular ultrasound scansFollow up calls to explain results clearlyAccess to male fertility urology specialists across the UKMonthly male fertility support groupsA dedicated male fertility podcastTheir questionnaire covers:Fertility historyGeneral healthLifestyle and dietWork environmentRed flag history such as undescended testicles or confirmed varicoceleExercise habitsClothing choicesMiscarriage historyThe system builds a risk profile and gives clear next step guidance.Because knowledge is power.Listen to the Testhim podcastIan co hosts the Testhim podcast with male fertility advocate Toby Trice. It is one of the only UK podcasts dedicated specifically to male fertility.Here are some standout episodes to explore:Fertility Talk with Jonathan RamsayEnvironmental toxins and fertility with Professor Richard LeaUnderstanding varicocele with Steven MoserThe couple approach with Jas Kalsi and Fatima HusainDealing with friends and familyYou can also explore all episodes athttps://www.testhim.comA note on being proactiveOne of the strongest messages from this episode is this:Do not wait until after multiple failed IVF cycles to investigate male fertility properly.If you can:Test earlyOptimise earlySee the right specialist earlyYou want to know that you have left no stone unturned.Support from our sponsorsAccess FertilityIf you are worried about the financial aspect of IVF treatment, Access Fertility partners with over 60 UK clinics to offer interest free finance, multi cycle packages and refund programmes.Find out more at:https://www.accessfertility.com/thefpOne Day TestsBook a confidential online fertility consultation and discuss blood testing with a specialist.Use code FERT10 for 10 percent off your blood test.https://www.onedaytests.comLet’s keep the conversation goingFollow me on Instagram: @fertilitypoddyLearn more about Fertility Action:https://fertilityaction.orgFind out more about workplace fertility support:https://fertilitymattersatwork.comExplore Testhim and their services:https://www.testhim.comIf this episode has helped you, please share it with someone who needs it.Male fertility is not an afterthought.It is half the story.Until next time.