Sexual and reproductive health in men with cystic fibrosis: consistent preferences, inconsistent practices.

Background: Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is increasingly relevant for men with CF. However, the extent of similarities or differences in SRH clinical practices across different centres or states is unknown as single clinic studies are not informative about variations in male preferences or clinical practices. We wished to determine the variability of male SRH knowledge and preferences, and clinical practices across different CF clinics.

Methods: Men attending 5 adult CF clinics in Australasia completed a survey of SRH knowledge, attitudes and behaviours.

Results: 264 (64%) men participated, with a median age of 30 years (17-56). 65% knew of near universal infertility due to a transport problem. 43% heard about infertility from their preferred source, but significantly later than desired. Less than half had undergone semen analysis (SA), which, while varying by site, was consistently later than preferred. 57 men were fathers, of whom 29 had utilised ART.

Conclusion: Men's preferences around SRH were more consistent than clinical practices. Clinical practice guidelines and training for health professionals would help reduce the gap between men's SRH preferences and clinical practice.