Male infertility is more common than you think.

Infertility isn’t just a women’s health issue. In fact, male factor infertility contributes to about 40–50% of infertility cases. Yet it often goes undiagnosed because signs aren’t always obvious.

Understanding the possible symptoms — and knowing when to seek testing — is the first step toward clarity and solutions.

Common signs and symptoms of male infertility

Unlike female infertility, which may present with cycle changes, male infertility doesn’t always have clear warning signs. But some possible indicators include:

• Difficulty conceiving: Trying for 12 months (or 6 months if the female partner is over 35) without pregnancy is the biggest red flag.
  
  
• Changes in sexual function: Problems with erections, ejaculation, or reduced sexual desire.
  
  
• Testicular pain or swelling: May signal infection, varicoceles, or other underlying issues.
  
  
• Abnormal hair growth: Reduced facial or body hair could suggest hormonal imbalances.
  
  
• Small, firm, or swollen testicles: Sometimes associated with sperm production issues.

Many men with infertility have no outward symptoms at all — which is why testing is crucial.

Possible causes of male infertility

Several factors can contribute to reduced fertility in men, including:

• Low sperm count or poor sperm motility (movement)
  
  
• Abnormal sperm morphology (shape and structure)
  
  
• Varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum that affect sperm quality)
  
  
• Hormonal imbalances (low testosterone or other endocrine issues)
  
  
• Genetic conditions
  
  
• Infections (including sexually transmitted infections)
  
  
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, obesity, or chronic stress

When should you get tested?

Doctors typically recommend a fertility evaluation if:

• You’ve been trying for 12 months without success (6 months if the female partner is 35 or older).
  
  
• There are known risk factors — such as testicular injury, undescended testicles, or prior cancer treatment.
  
  
• You experience symptoms like erectile dysfunction, low libido, or testicular pain/swelling.

Testing usually begins with a semen analysis to measure sperm count, motility, and morphology. Blood tests, imaging, or genetic screening may follow depending on results.

What to expect from a semen analysis

A semen analysis is simple, non-invasive, and provides valuable insight. It looks at:

• Volume of ejaculate
  
  
• Sperm concentration (count)
  
  
• Motility (how well sperm move)
  
  
• Morphology (sperm shape and structure)

This information helps doctors understand whether infertility may be related to sperm quality, and what treatment options might help.

The bottom line

Male infertility is common and often overlooked, but testing can provide clarity and open doors to treatment. If you’ve been trying to conceive without success — or have symptoms that raise concern — it’s worth reaching out for an evaluation.

Infertility is not a reflection of masculinity or worth. Getting tested is a proactive step toward answers, options, and support.

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