Former AFL Star Urges Men to Prioritise Their Fertility
Infertility is often thought of as a women’s health issue, but former AFL player Reece Conca is on a mission to change that perception. Reece is using his personal experience to raise awareness about male infertility and encourage men to take charge of their reproductive health.
Breaking the Silence on Male Infertility
As the current player development manager at Melbourne Football Club, Reece has gone public about his own four-year struggle with infertility. Diagnosed with azoospermia—a condition where no sperm is present in the ejaculate—he understands the emotional toll infertility can take on men. In a powerful new video, he shares the mental health strategies that helped him navigate feelings of shame, anxiety, and guilt.
“I’ve spent years learning how to use mindfulness techniques to manage stress and anxiety,” says Conca. “I’ve learned it’s important to take time to think about your mental health, to learn about different strategies and how to take deliberate actions to care for your wellbeing.”
The Importance of Mental Wellbeing in the Fertility Journey
In the video, Conca highlights key approaches to managing mental and emotional health during infertility struggles. These include:
- Taking time to reset when needed
- Prioritising exercise for both physical and mental benefits
- Speaking openly about struggles
- Maintaining open and honest communication with a partner
By sharing his story, Conca hopes to break down the stigma surrounding male infertility and encourage other men to seek help sooner rather than later.
Understanding Male Infertility
Dr Fleur Cattrall, Medical Director at Melbourne IVF, emphasises that male infertility is more common than many realise.
“In 40% of couples struggling to conceive naturally, the infertility is caused by a problem with sperm,” Dr Cattrall explains. “It still seems to be easier for women to talk openly about their health; men don’t tend to talk about their health, or their fertility.
“With more men like Reece talking about their infertility, we hope to encourage men to seek timely help, and make it easier for men to feel less embarrassed about booking a semen analysis. This can help them achieve their dream of starting a family sooner.”
Seeking Support and Taking Action
Infertility can be an emotional and isolating experience, but it doesn’t have to be faced alone. If you’ve been trying to conceive for more than six months without success, it’s important to seek medical advice. Consult your GP or reach out to a fertility specialist for guidance and support.
By taking proactive steps, men can gain valuable insights into their reproductive health and explore options that may help them on their journey to parenthood. With advocates like Reece Conca leading the way, conversations around male infertility are becoming more open, helping to change the narrative and empower men to take control of their fertility.
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