Male Infertility: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Infertility affects roughly one in six couples trying to conceive, and in about half of those cases, a male factor is involved. Despite this, male infertility is often overlooked or left unaddressed for years while the focus remains on the female partner.

The most common cause of male infertility is a problem with sperm production or function. This includes low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm shape. Other causes include blockages in the tubes that carry sperm, hormonal imbalances, varicocele, previous infections, or genetic conditions.

Diagnosis starts with a semen analysis, which examines the number, movement, and shape of sperm. This is a simple, non-invasive test and is usually the first step in any infertility workup. Depending on the results, further tests may include hormone levels, genetic testing, or a scrotal ultrasound.

Many causes of male infertility are treatable. Varicocele, one of the most common correctable causes, can be repaired surgically. Hormonal imbalances can be treated with medication. For men with no sperm in the ejaculate, surgical sperm retrieval procedures such as TESA or Micro-TESE can obtain sperm directly from the testis for use in IVF.

If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for 12 months without success, or sooner if there are known risk factors, a male fertility assessment is a sensible next step. Early evaluation can save time, reduce stress, and significantly improve the chances of achieving a pregnancy.