Males with CF face sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and well-being issues, including testosterone deficiency, sexual function/dysfunction, sexually transmitted infection (STI) management, and family-building decisions (marriage and fatherhood), among others. Many men are interested in SRH research, resources, and clinical services and have unanswered questions and untreated symptoms.

Our patient-centered program seeks to raise awareness of male CF-SRH concerns and provide a supportive environment to engage with researchers, providers, and peers. We host virtual meetings to share helpful information and resources for males to learn about CF-SRH issues.

Our meetings:

• Are hosted by males with CF,
  
• Provide speakers who are experts in their fields (clinicians, researchers, and peer panelists),
• Give attendees the opportunity for Q & A with the experts,
• Build community by providing a forum for uncomfortable conversations on sensitive topics,
• Encourage CF males to share their stories and learn from others, and
• Strive to raise awareness of the SRH issues faced by our community.

Educational Guest(s):

• Ellie Jobst – University of Kansas Medical Center Clinical Dietitian
• Joseph Bores – Physical Therapy Assistant and Certified Personal Trainer 
• Billy Fritsch – Certified Personal Trainer and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)

• 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%.