A Closer Look at Male Infertility
A Closer Look at Male Infertility
Nearly 15% of couples are infertile, meaning they haven't gotten pregnant after trying for at least a year. But it's not just a women's issue. Both genders can have problems that affect fertility.
Some signs and symptoms of male infertility include:
- Issues with sexual function
- Pain or swelling in the testicle area
- Decreased body or facial hair
- Low sperm count
The good news is specialists can treat 80-90% of the causes of male infertility.
Here are some stats and facts about male infertility and tips to take care of your sperm.
One in eight couple has infertility problems, meaning trouble conceiving a child after one year of unprotected sex. Both men and women contribute to infertility.
Top Causes of Male Infertility
- Varicocele (varicose vein in the scrotum)
- Hormone abnormalities
- Use of testosterone supplements
- Problems with semen, such as abnormal size and shape of sperm, low sperm count or slow sperm
- Illness, injury and lifestyle choices
Common Treatment Options
- Varicocele repair
- Hormone treatments
- Procedure to find sperm (50-99% successful)
- Lifestyle modifications
- Vasectomy reversal (85-95% successful)
What you can to do take care of your sperm
- Stop smoking
- Limit alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Exercise regularly
The good news: Nearly 90% of the causes of male infertility can be treated by a specialist.
Learn More From Our Specialists
How Accurate Are At-Home Fertility Tests for Men?
At-home sperm tests are everywhere, from drugstore shelves to online ads. Learn what these tests actually measure and what they cannot catch that only a clinical evaluation can reveal.
How a Man's Health Affects Pregnancy
Fertility conversations tend to focus on women, but men contribute 50% of the equation. Learn how emerging research on epigenetics is changing what we know about a father's role in a healthy pregnancy.
Infertility Isn't Just a Women's Issue
About 40% of infertility cases involve male factors, yet men are often left out of the fertility evaluation process. Learn about when couples should seek help and how involving both partners makes the path to pregnancy more effective.
