From erectile dysfunction to fertility struggles, millions of men are staying silent – held back by stigma, shame and outdated ideas of masculinity. New data reveals the scale of the problem – and why more men are turning to AI instead of doctors
For all the talk of modern masculinity, one area of men’s health remains stubbornly stuck in silence: sex.
According to Voy’s Unembarrassing Bodies Health Index 2026, the numbers are stark. Just 17% of men say they feel comfortable discussing sexual performance concerns, while only 13% would openly talk about fertility. It’s the silent sexual health crisis.
These aren’t fringe issues. They’re some of the most common health concerns men experience. But culturally, they remain among the hardest to talk about—wrapped up in identity, ego and deeply ingrained expectations of what it means to be a man.
“Admitting a problem – particularly one related to sexual performance or fertility – can feel like admitting failure,” the report notes, highlighting how closely these issues are tied to ideas of masculinity, control and strength.
The result is a quiet crisis. Men are struggling – but not speaking.
The pressure to “just get on with it”
If there’s one statistic that defines the male experience of health in 2026, it’s this: 51% of men say they feel pressure to simply “get on with it” when dealing with health concerns.
That mindset is reinforced early. From locker-room banter to social expectations, many men grow up internalising the idea that vulnerability is weakness. Health issues—especially those linked to sex—become something to endure, not explore.
The report makes clear this isn’t just about embarrassment. It’s structural.
A significant 41% of men say traditional expectations of masculinity actively create taboos around discussing health issues.
And when topics feel off-limits, silence becomes the default.
“I had no energy… my libido disappeared completely”
For some men, that silence can last years—until something forces a change.
Gordon “Gordy” Russell, a 46-year-old cancer specialist nurse and coach from Dumfries, describes how his health declined following the death of his father.
“I had no energy, training was difficult and my libido disappeared completely,” he says. “I had no patience with my kids and started to hide myself away.”
Despite knowing something was wrong, Gordy initially struggled to get answers—and, like many men, didn’t openly discuss what he was experiencing.
“I felt so lost until I spoke to a colleague… that was the first time someone suggested I explore options like testosterone treatment.”
That conversation changed everything. “My confidence is back. I feel like I have the energy again… I can walk around in my trunks on holiday without hiding under a shirt.”
Now, he speaks openly about his experience—and encourages others to do the same.
“Having an open conversation was such a turning point for me,” he says. “We still have so much to learn as a society.”
Suffering in silence—by design
Gordy’s story is far from unique. Across the UK, the report shows that stigma isn’t just influencing how men feel—it’s shaping how they behave.
Two in five people have never spoken to anyone about body issues they feel embarrassed about. And while that spans both genders, the barriers for men—particularly around sexual health – are uniquely entrenched.
Even when symptoms affect relationships, confidence or performance, many men still choose isolation over conversation.
Why? Because speaking up risks exposure.
In male social circles, the report highlights how humour and banter can reinforce rigid ideas of masculinity – making the fear of becoming “the joke” a powerful deterrent.
Why men are turning to AI instead of doctors
Perhaps the most telling shift is where men are going instead. Nearly a quarter (23%) of men say it’s easier to ask AI platforms about health issues than to speak to a professional.
It’s not hard to see why. AI offers anonymity. No judgement. No awkward eye contact. No fear of embarrassment.
By contrast, traditional healthcare can feel slow, exposed and intimidating – particularly for sensitive issues. Long wait times, short appointments and the pressure to explain deeply personal concerns quickly all add friction.
As the report explains, AI has become a “low-pressure outlet” where men can ask questions freely, without fear of being judged. But there’s a catch.
While digital tools can be a useful starting point, they lack the nuance, context and clinical oversight needed to diagnose or treat complex conditions. And when it comes to sexual health, delays in seeking proper care can mean missing early signs of more serious issues.
The real cost of staying silent
The consequences of this silence go beyond the bedroom.
Body stigma – of which sexual health is a key part – affects nearly every aspect of life. According to the report, 68% of Brits say embarrassment about their bodies impacts daily activities, from relationships to work and socialising.
For men, sexual health issues can ripple into confidence, mental health and identity. And yet, the conversation still isn’t happening.
Dr Earim Chaudry, Voy’s Chief Medical Officer, sees the impact firsthand in clinical practice.
“When someone feels ongoing shame about their body, it often changes how they behave,” he explains. “They may avoid seeking medical advice… creating a cycle where stigma worsens health, and poorer health reinforces stigma.”
Breaking the silence
If there’s one takeaway from the data, it’s this: men aren’t unwilling to seek help—they just need safer ways to do it.
That means changing the definition of strength. Creating environments—whether in clinics, gyms or conversations—where vulnerability isn’t penalised. And normalising discussions around the topics that matter most.
Because the reality is simple. These issues are common. They are treatable. And they are nothing to be ashamed of. But until more men feel able to say that out loud, the silence will continue.
And so will the cost. In the end, the biggest barrier to better health isn’t access or awareness. It’s the things men still won’t say.
