Bold Enough to Ask Podcast

Conversations on Sexual & Reproductive Health for People with Cystic Fibrosis
Men's Sexual and Reproductive Health Resources

Bold Enough to Ask: A BreatheStrong CF podcast

This podcast series focuses on Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) for people with cystic fibrosis. Members of the CF community serve as hosts and panelists who discuss SRH concerns and share their personal stories, and expert content is provided by specialized providers, researchers, or social workers.

We know SRH can feel like an embarrassing conversation. This peer format reduces the embarrassment often associated with discussing SRH topics and empowers listeners to have these conversations with their healthcare providers or partners.

Please note: The information shared in our podcasts and on our website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or treatment. We encourage all participants to discuss these topics with their personal healthcare providers.

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Bold Enough to Ask Episodes

Bold Enough to Ask is focused on sexual and reproductive issues and concerns in the cystic fibrosis community. Some topics are better suited for a mature audience.  This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider with questions about your health.

Episode 3: Beyond 50 – CF Men Talk Sexual Health and Aging

As more people with CF live past the age of 50, new challenges arise. Comorbidities such as osteoporosis, colorectal cancer, hypertension, and arthritis generally emerge as a person approaches 60 years old. With Host Chad Bautch and guests Dr. Victor Roggli, John Kleven, and Dr. John Lindsey, this episode does a deep dive into the aging experience and considerations around sexual health that aging men with CF have to consider.

Episode 2: Becoming a Dad

Becoming a father is a significant decision for someone with CF, but with treatment advancements (in particular, modulators that have enhanced the longevity and quality of life of pwCF) and accessibility of assistive reproductive technologies, more men are finding the joys of fatherhood.

Episode 1: Male Infertility and the IVF Experience

Infertility affects 98% of men with cystic fibrosis. In this episode, we unpack what it really means to navigate fertility testing, assisted reproduction, and relationship dynamics throughout the IVF journey for men. Guests share honest stories about the mix of science, hope, and vulnerability that comes with starting a family with CF.

Did you know?

  • Infertility occurs in about 95-98% of males with CF.
  • Low testosterone levels affect up to 88% of men with CF compared with up to 12% of their healthy peers.
  • 65% of males report sexual dysfunction, primarily due to lack of ejaculate.
  • CF can potentially affect the development or function of the prostate.
  • More than 80% of men with CF express desire to have children.
  • Sperm retrieval rates can be as high as 100%.