Dr. Josh Gonzalez discusses male factor infertility, the effects of oral contraceptives on hormone levels, the increase in vasectomies post Roe v. Wade, and the availability of at-home sperm testing. He also explores regenerative therapies for sexual health and debunks misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy and male fertility.
Male factor infertility accounts for 50% of cases, often overlooked as a female issue.
Oral contraceptives elevate sex hormone binding globulin, hindering hormone effectiveness.
Increased requests for vasectomies post Roe v. Wade overturn, highlighting shifting male reproductive decisions.
Deep dives
Decline in Sperm Counts and Fertility Trends
Studies suggest a significant reduction in sperm counts since the 1970s, raising concerns regarding fertility levels in the future. These alarming trends predict challenges in natural conception without assisted reproductive technologies by 2060, emphasizing the need for proactive fertility measures. The global decline in men's reproductive health implies the importance of educating individuals on understanding and addressing these critical issues early on.
Hormone Replacement Therapy for Sexual Health
Exploring hormone replacement therapy (HRT) underlines its roles in managing sexual dysfunctions in both men and women. Dr. Josh Gonzalez highlights the significance of HRT in addressing issues like erectile dysfunction, low libido, and hormonal imbalances. The podcast delves into the impact of HRT on sexual wellness and the importance of tailored treatments for individuals with diverse sexual health concerns.
Regenerative Therapies for Sexual Dysfunctions
The podcast delves into innovative regenerative therapies, like shockwave therapy for erectile dysfunction, as a complementary treatment in sexual medicine. Dr. Gonzalez elaborates on the benefits of regenerative approaches in restoring tissue function and enhancing sexual health. These advancements, including laser treatments for sexual pain, aim to improve overall sexual well-being.
Addressing Sexual Health Taboos and Education Gaps
The episode confronts societal taboos and educational gaps surrounding sexual health discussions, emphasizing the need for open conversations and comprehensive sex education. Dr. Gonzalez highlights the importance of understanding one's body, addressing sexual dysfunctions, and seeking proactive care to optimize sexual health. The podcast encourages destigmatizing sexual health topics and promoting informed decision-making.
Myths and Realities of Semen Retention
The discussion challenges popular myths around semen retention practices and emphasizes the lack of scientific evidence supporting its purported benefits. Dr. Gonzalez critiques the trends like 'no fap' and 'semen retention' movements, highlighting their questionable foundations and potential misconceptions. Through a candid analysis, the podcast encourages a balanced perspective on sexual practices and addresses common misconceptions.
Tune into this conversation with the incredible Dr. Josh Gonzalez, a board-certified urologist fellowship-trained in sexual medicine and specializing in the management of male and female sexual dysfunctions. Dr. Gonzalez has been featured in Vogue and is a medical contributor to Men’s Health and Cosmopolitan, among others. He is a sexual health expert who has built a following on TikTok and Instagram, where he uses social media to educate on sexual and reproductive health. He is also the co-founder of Popstar, a men’s supplement addressing semen health. I loved talking with Dr. Gonzalez. I can’t wait to share his incredible work with you.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
That 50 percent of infertility cases are related to male factor infertility. That’s half of the cases, but somehow, we default label infertility as a female issue.
How oral contraceptive pills cause an elevation in a protein called sex hormone binding globulin in women. This is a protein you don't want large amounts of in your body, as it binds up all of your hormones. When the hormones are bound, they can't be effectively used.
About the groundswell of men coming into Dr. Gonzalez’s office requesting vasectomies after the overturning of Roe v. Wade.
How you can easily test your sperm with at-home collection kits. For not much money, you can freeze your sperm, too.