As we mark Men’s Health Awareness Month this November, we want to shift the focus to male infertility, a topic often overlooked in public fertility conversations. While infertility is usually seen as a women’s issue, male factors account for 40-50% of infertility cases. Despite its prevalence, male infertility is still surrounded by stigma, leaving many men struggling silently. 

So, what is male infertility? Male infertility refers to the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected sex. This condition is often due to low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm shape. However, the underlying causes can be complex, ranging from lifestyle factors to medical conditions.

Recent studies have shown that sperm counts have declined globally over the last four decades. This highlights the need for greater awareness of male reproductive health.

Common Causes of Male Infertility

Lifestyle Factors

• Smoking & alcohol: Long term use of these substances can damage sperm DNA, reduce sperm count, and impair sperm motility.

• Diet & exercise: A nutrient-poor diet and sedentary lifestyle can negatively impact sperm quality. 

• Environmental toxins: Exposure to chemicals, such as pesticides, can reduce sperm quality.

Medical Conditions

• Hormonal imbalances: Issues like hypogonadism (a condition in which the body doesn't produce enough testosterone or enough sperm or both) can impair sperm production.

• Varicoceles: Enlarged veins in the scrotum can raise testicular temperature, reducing sperm quality.

• Chronic illnesses: Conditions like diabetes and untreated infections don’t always but can affect sperm health.

Age and Genetics

• Ageing sperm: Unlike women, men don’t have a fertility “cut-off,” but sperm quality declines after age 40, with an increased risk of genetic abnormalities (NICE guidelines).

• Genetic conditions: Disorders like Klinefelter syndrome can impair sperm production.

Ways to Improve Male Fertility 

While not all causes of male infertility can be prevented, certain lifestyle modifications and medical interventions can improve fertility outcomes:

Healthy lifestyle changes

• Diet: consuming a nutrient-rich diet high in antioxidants can enhance sperm health. Focus on foods rich in zinc, selenium, and vitamin C.

• Exercise: regular moderate exercise improves blood circulation and hormone levels, but strenuous activities that elevate testicular temperature should be avoided.

• Stress management: practices such as yoga, meditation, or therapy can reduce stress, which is known to negatively affect sperm quality.

Medical interventions

• Hormone therapies can address imbalances affecting sperm production.

• Techniques like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) can be effective when sperm motility or count is low.

• Regular health check-ups can help identify and treat conditions like varicoceles early, improving the chances of natural conception.

How Technology is Helping 

Advancements in technology have transformed how male infertility is diagnosed and treated. Traditional semen analysis, while informative, often fails to capture deeper issues. Today, sperm DNA fragmentation testing offers a more precise understanding of sperm quality, identifying damage that could impair fertilisation and embryo development. Such tests can significantly improve treatment outcomes by tailoring interventions to specific conditions.

Additionally, technologies like advanced sperm retrieval procedures can aid men with low sperm counts or blockages. For couples exploring these options, telehealth platforms like Apricity’s virtual clinic provide easy access to consultations, personalised treatment plans, and continuous support, all from the comfort of home. This holistic approach allows couples to navigate infertility with greater ease.

The Emotional Impact 

Infertility can be a deeply isolating experience for men. Many feel a sense of failure or inadequacy, especially given societal pressures that associate masculinity with virility. Men often report feelings of guilt, shame, and even depression during infertility treatment. Unfortunately, societal norms can discourage men from seeking help or expressing their emotions, leaving them to cope in silence. 

Partners, colleagues and friends play a crucial role in providing men with the emotional support they need. Open communication is key: encourage your partner to share their feelings without fear of judgement. Let him know it’s okay to feel vulnerable, and reassure them that their worth isn’t tied to fertility. Suggesting counselling or support groups, and even joining him, can help alleviate feelings of isolation. Organisations like Fertility Family and HIMfertility can also offer very helpful resources. 

How We Can Support Men Through Infertility

Navigating infertility is emotionally taxing for both partners, so creating a safe space for honest conversations is crucial. Here are some tips on how to support a male partner through this:

1. Start the conversation gently. Bring up the topic in a non-confrontational way, ensuring he feels comfortable to express his thoughts. Phrases like, “I’ve been thinking about how we’re both feeling,” can open the door for dialogue.

2. Be patient and listen. Men may need time to process their emotions before opening up. Show empathy and let him share at his own pace.

3. Encourage seeking support. Sometimes, men find it easier to talk to professionals or other men in similar situations. Suggest joining a support group or speaking with a fertility counsellor.

4. Share the load. Remind him that this journey is shared. Fertility is not a reflection of his masculinity, and both partners should approach it as a team.

By fostering a compassionate and open environment, couples can strengthen their relationship while navigating the challenges of infertility together.

Final Thoughts 

By raising awareness, sharing resources and encouraging open conversations, we can break down barriers that prevent men from seeking the help they need. 

At Apricity, we are committed to supporting men on their fertility journey with personalised, compassionate care.

If you or someone you know is navigating male infertility, reach out to our team for a consultation today. Our advisors are here to provide emotional support through our key advisors, care team and inclusive counselling to support you on your journey and answer all your questions.

Looking for more information? Book a free consultation with one of our fertility experts to explore your options.