Understanding Male Infertility

Infertility is a condition that affects the reproductive system, making it difficult for a person to have children. It can affect both men and women. Male infertility means there’s a problem with a man’s reproductive system that prevents pregnancy. It’s more common than many people think, and it’s important to remember it’s not anyone’s fault. If you and your partner are having trouble conceiving, talking to a healthcare provider is a good place to start.

What Causes It?

For pregnancy to occur, the body must produce healthy sperm that can travel through the reproductive system and reach the egg. If anything disrupts this process, it can lead to infertility. The most common cause is sperm-related issues. Some men produce too few sperm, or none at all, while others have sperm that don’t move well or are abnormally shaped. These problems can result from infections (such as mumps after puberty), hormone imbalances, immune system disorders, lifestyle factors like smoking or drug use, and genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis.

“Other causes include structural issues such as blockages in the reproductive tract due to birth defects, surgery, or infections”, explains PIH Health Family Medicine Physician Usama Mitry. Enlarged veins in the scrotum (varicoceles) can also be a factor. In some cases, infertility is related to conditions like erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, chronic illnesses, or side effects from medications.

Who’s at Risk?

“Certain factors can increase the risk of male infertility, including past testicular injuries or surgeries, reproductive infections, undescended testicles, frequent exposure to heat, early or late puberty, and specific genetic conditions”, explains Dr. Mitry. Some prescription medications can also have an impact on fertility.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically starts with a review of your health history and a physical exam. A semen analysis is often used to evaluate sperm count, movement, and shape. Blood tests may check hormone levels, while imaging (such as an ultrasound) can provide more detail. In some cases, a testicular biopsy may be done to better understand the cause. You may begin this process with your primary care provider, but if results suggest a more complex issue, a fertility specialist may be recommended. To find a doctor near you, visit PIHHealth.org/Doctor.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment depends on the cause. Some options include fertility procedures like artificial insemination, where healthy sperm is placed directly into the uterus, or in vitro fertilization (IVF), where eggs are fertilized in a lab. Another method, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), involves injecting a single sperm into an egg before implantation. If hormone imbalances are the cause, medication may help. Surgery may be recommended to correct blockages or remove varicoceles, or to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles.

Facing infertility can be emotionally difficult, and it’s okay to ask for help. Counseling or support services can make a big difference for you and your partner. Talk to your primary care doctor if you are facing infertility issues. To find a doctor near you, visit PIHHealth.org/Doctor.