What is Male Infertility?
Male infertility is a condition that affects many men and can make it difficult for conception. It involves issues with sperm production, function, or delivery and can be caused by factors like low sperm count, poor sperm motility (movement), abnormal sperm shape, or blockages. While this may be overwhelming, it’s important to know that male infertility is treatable. With the right care and support, many men are able to overcome these challenges and successfully conceive with the help of assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, IUI, and sperm freezing.
Signs of Male Infertility
Male infertility often goes unnoticed until you struggle to conceive. It’s important to be aware of potential signs of fertility issues, including:
- Difficulty conceiving after a year of unprotected intercourse
- Low sperm count, poor movement, or abnormal shape
- Issues with sexual function, like erectile dysfunction or low libido
- Testicular pain, swelling, or abnormalities
- Hormonal imbalances, like reduced body or facial hair
If these signs sound familiar, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider to discuss your options. Early evaluation and treatment can make a significant difference in addressing any underlying issues.
Male Infertility: By The Numbers
Male infertility is more common than many people realize. Here are some key statistics to help put things in perspective:
50% of Infertility Cases
50-60% Decline in Sperm Count
37% of Men in the US
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Schedule a ConsultationSperm Freezing: Preserving Future Fertility
Sperm freezing, also known as sperm cryopreservation, offers a valuable option for men who wish to preserve their fertility for the future. Whether you’re facing medical treatments like chemotherapy, planning ahead for assisted reproduction, or simply want to delay parenthood, sperm freezing can provide flexibility and peace of mind.
This simple process involves collecting and freezing sperm, which can then be stored for years without compromising quality. If you’re considering treatments like IVF or IUI, or if you want to take proactive steps for your fertility, sperm freezing can help ensure your ability to start or grow your family later in life.
Common Male Infertility FAQs
Diagnosis often starts with a semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology. Additional tests may include blood work for hormone levels, genetic testing, ultrasound, or testicular biopsy.
Yes. Factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, obesity, stress, and exposure to environmental toxins or heat can negatively impact sperm quality and production.
Treatments depend on the cause and may include:
- Medications for hormonal imbalances or infections.
- Surgical procedures for blockages or varicoceles.
- Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
In some cases, yes. Azoospermia (no sperm in semen) may result from blockages or low production. Surgical sperm retrieval techniques, like testicular sperm extraction (TESE), can sometimes recover viable sperm for use in ART.
While men can father children later in life, sperm quality tends to decline with age. This can result in lower pregnancy rates, increased risk of miscarriage, or higher chances of genetic abnormalities in offspring.
