5 symptoms and causes of infertility in men

Trying to conceive a child can be an exciting time, filled with hope and anticipation. But for some couples, it can also be a frustrating journey.

If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for a year without success, you and your partner might be facing infertility.

Infertility is a common condition affecting about 1 in 7 couples and it can affect both men and women. We’ll be focusing on male infertility, what to look out for, and the reasons behind it.

Let’s clear something up first: there often aren’t any obvious signs of male infertility. The main indicator is simply the inability to conceive a child after a year of trying. However, there can be some underlying issues that might cause problems. By understanding these, you can have a more open conversation with your doctor and explore potential solutions.

5 Signs that might point toward male infertility

1. Sexual difficulties

This can include problems ejaculating, low semen volume, erectile dysfunction (trouble getting or keeping an erection), or reduced sex drive. These issues can sometimes be symptoms of hormonal imbalances or other conditions affecting fertility.

2. Testicular issues

Pain, swelling, or a lump in the testicle area can be a red flag.

Healthy sperm production relies on the proper functioning of the testicles, so any abnormalities there might need to be checked by a doctor.

3. Past medical history

Certain medical conditions like undescended testicles (when the testicles don’t move down into the scrotum before birth), infections (including sexually transmitted infections), or surgeries like vasectomy (a procedure for permanent birth control) can impact sperm production or delivery.

4. Lifestyle choices

Habits like smoking, heavy alcohol use, and recreational drugs can all affect sperm quality and count.