What is the study about?

We want to understand how body weight plays a major role in male fertility. Many men are affected by having lower than normal levels of sperm function (sometimes called ‘infertility’), but very little is known about what can be done to increase levels of sperm function. Obesity is a major cause of male infertility and there is a persistent need to improve the treatment of men with this condition. We want to determine if the function of sperm changes temporarily when certain lifestyle factors such as weight management are modified. This research will help us to understand more about fertility in men, and could improve the treatment of couples with problems starting a family. 

This research study is funded by the National Institute of Health Research and approved by an independent ethics committee.

Who can participate?

We are looking for men aged 18-60 with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above who may have a low sperm count (we will screen for this on 1st visit). There are certain criteria under which you may not be able to participate; for more details please see our Information Sheet for Research Participants (.pdf)‌‌‌‌‌.

What will I gain from taking part in the study?

If you decide to take part, you will receive £550 in expenses and a personal programme of weight loss delivered by a specialist doctor at Hammersmith Hospital.

What will happen during the study?

Participants are required to attend eight visits lasting 30-60 minutes each at the Hammersmith Hospital. During the first visit, we will confirm your suitability for the study. We will also allocate you to a dietary programme for up to 16 weeks. Blood and semen samples will be required during the study visits. For more details, see our Information Sheet for Research Participants (.pdf)‌‌‌.

What do I need to do to take part?

If you are interested in taking part please read the Information Sheet for Research Participants (.pdf)‌‌ and contact Dr Aditi Sharma via email at fertility@imperial.ac.uk or phone on 07818831613.