Men can also be infertile. Let’s understand male infertility.

If you and your partner have been trying to get pregnant and it’s just not happening—it’s okay. You’re not alone.

About 1 in 7 couples worldwide face infertility, and contrary to common belief, it’s not just a women’s issue. In fact, in many cases, the reason can be male factor infertility. That’s why understanding and addressing male infertility is just as important—and yes, also very treatable.

What is Male Infertility?

Male infertility simply means a man’s sperm isn’t able to fertilize the egg. This could be due to low sperm count, poor sperm quality, or blockages that stop sperm from reaching the egg. In India, lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol, pollution, stress, and obesity can all contribute to it. Health conditions like diabetes and untreated infections can also be the reason why.

Let’s Break Down Common Causes of Male Infertility

1. Problems with Sperm Production

  • Low Sperm Count: Fewer sperm than needed.
  • No Sperm: In some cases, no sperm is found in the semen at all.
  • Poor Sperm Quality:
    They don’t swim well (low motility).
    They’re oddly shaped (abnormal morphology)
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone or other hormone issues can affect sperm production.

2. Blockages in the Reproductive Tract

Sometimes sperm is produced—but can’t get out. This can happen due to previous surgeries, infections, or congenital issues.

3. Functional Issues

  • Erectile dysfunction or ejaculation problems
  • Retrograde ejaculation (semen goes backward into the bladder)
  • Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)

4. Lifestyle & Health Factors

Smoking, alcohol, drugs, obesity, heat exposure, and stress—can all reduce fertility levels.

5. Genetic Causes

  • Conditions like Klinefelter syndrome
  • Anti-sperm antibodies (when your body mistakenly attacks your own sperm)

How Do We Diagnose Male Infertility?

Step 1: Medical & Sexual History

Your healthcare provider will find out about your health, lifestyle, past infections or injuries, and sexual function.

Step 2: Physical Examination

Checking the testicles and penis for any abnormalities like varicocele or signs of hormonal imbalances.

Step 3: Semen Analysis

A simple test to evaluate your sperm count, movement, shape, and semen volume. This may be done more than once to get accurate results.

Step 4: Blood Tests

To check hormone levels like testosterone, FSH, LH, and thyroid hormones.

Step 5: Scrotal Ultrasound

To look for blockages, tumors, or varicoceles.

Step 6: Genetic Testing

If your sperm count is very low or zero, you may be asked to get tested for Y chromosome issues or conditions like Klinefelter’s.

Step 7: Post-Ejaculation Urine Test

To check if semen is going into the bladder (retrograde ejaculation).

Step 8: Testicular Biopsy

In some cases, a small tissue sample is taken to check if sperm is being produced.

Step 9: Advanced Sperm Tests

To look at DNA damage or the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg.

How is Male Infertility Treated?

Medications

  • Hormone therapies (like Clomiphene or hCG)
  • Antibiotics for infections
  • ED medications if needed

Surgery

  • Varicocele repair
  • Sperm retrieval (like TESA, TESE, or PESA)
  • Clearing blockages in the reproductive tract

Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)

  • IUI: Sperm is placed directly in the uterus
  • IVF: Eggs and sperm are combined in a lab
  • ICSI: A single sperm is injected into an egg
  • Donor Sperm: In cases where sperm production can’t be improved

Treating Ejaculation Issues

Medications can help if semen isn’t released properly

Lifestyle Changes That Can Make a Big Impact

Infertility doesn’t always need complex treatments. Sometimes, small lifestyle changes go a long way:

  • Quit smoking & limit alcohol
  • Avoid heat exposure (like hot tubs, tight underwear)
  • Lose excess weight
  • Reduce stress
  • Avoid recreational drugs and anabolic steroids

If you’re struggling with infertility, don’t wait. Early diagnosis makes a big difference.