Key Takeaways
- Male infertility is common, and a problem with the male partner is part of the reason in up to half of couples who have trouble getting pregnant.
- Hormones such as testosterone play a key role in making sperm, so hormone problems can lower fertility.
- Taking testosterone therapy can lower sperm production, so men who want children should talk with a doctor first.
- You should see a doctor if you and your partner have not gotten pregnant after one year of trying, or after six months if your partner is older than 35.
- Prima CARE's men's health and endocrinology specialists in Fall River, MA, can help find the cause and guide next steps, and you can request an appointment online.
How Common Is Male Infertility?
Many people think fertility problems mainly affect women, but that is not true. According to the Mayo Clinic overview of male infertility, nearly one in seven couples is infertile. In up to half of these couples, male infertility is at least part of the reason.
The Cleveland Clinic guide to male infertility reports that male infertility affects up to 15% of men in the United States who are trying to conceive.
For many men, the main sign of infertility is simply not being able to start a pregnancy. There may be no other symptoms.
How Hormones Affect Male Fertility
Your body needs the right balance of hormones to make healthy sperm. Testosterone is the main male sex hormone. Mayo Clinic explains that hormone problems can come from several glands, including:
- The hypothalamus and pituitary gland in the brain, which send signals to the testicles.
- The thyroid gland.
- The adrenal glands.
When the body does not make enough testosterone, it is called hypogonadism, or 'low T.'
Signs of Low Testosterone
The Endocrine Society guide to hypogonadism in men lists common symptoms of low testosterone:
- Lower sex drive.
- Erectile dysfunction (ED), or trouble getting or keeping an erection.
- Lower sperm count and infertility.
- Less energy.
- Loss of muscle mass.
- Low mood.
The Endocrine Society notes that about 35% of men older than 45 and 30% to 50% of men with obesity or type 2 diabetes have hypogonadism. If you have diabetes, the Prima CARE blog on managing Type 2 diabetes with lifestyle changes offers helpful tips.
Why Testosterone Therapy Can Lower Fertility
This surprises many men. Taking testosterone from outside the body can tell your brain to slow down your own sperm production. The Endocrine Society lists decreased sperm production as a possible risk of testosterone therapy. It advises that men who are planning to have children should not use testosterone therapy.
| Testosterone Therapy | Fertility-Focused Hormone Care | |
|---|---|---|
| Main goal | Raise testosterone levels and ease symptoms | Support healthy sperm production |
| Effect on sperm | Can lower sperm production | Aims to protect or improve sperm |
| Best for | Men not planning to have children | Men who want to start a family |
Always talk with a doctor before starting or stopping any hormone treatment.
Other Common Causes of Male Infertility
Hormones are only one piece of the puzzle. Mayo Clinic lists other causes, such as:
- Varicocele: A swelling of the veins that drain the testicle. It is the most common cause of male infertility that can be fixed.
- Infections: Some infections can affect sperm or block the path sperm travel.
- Blockages: Damage or swelling can block the tubes that carry sperm.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, drinking alcohol and obesity can affect fertility.
Stress can also take a toll on your overall health. Learn more in the Prima CARE blog on how chronic stress affects the body.
When to See a Men's Health Doctor
Mayo Clinic recommends seeing a doctor if you have not been able to start a pregnancy after one year of regular sex without protection, or after six months if your partner is older than 35.
You should also make an appointment sooner if you have:
- Problems with erections or ejaculation.
- Low sex drive or other signs of low testosterone.
- Pain, swelling or a lump in the testicle area.
- A history of testicle, prostate or sexual problems.
- Past surgery in the groin, testicles or scrotum.
What to Expect at Your Visit
The Mayo Clinic guide to diagnosing male infertility explains that testing often includes:
- A physical exam and review of your health history.
- A semen analysis to check sperm count, movement and shape.
- A blood test to check testosterone and other hormones.
- Ultrasound or other tests if needed.
Sperm counts often change from one sample to the next, so you may need more than one semen test.
How Prima CARE Supports Men's Health in Fall River
Prima CARE offers several services that can help men with fertility and hormone concerns:
- Sexual Health and Wellness: Care for low testosterone, low libido, erectile dysfunction and male infertility in a welcoming, stigma-free setting.
- Endocrinology: Specialists who treat hormone problems, thyroid disease, diabetes and male infertility at Prima CARE's Fall River office.
- Urology: Care for prostate health and other urinary and reproductive concerns.
Get Answers About Male Fertility at Prima CARE
Male infertility is common, and hormone problems are one of the causes doctors can test for and treat. Prima CARE's men's health and endocrinology teams can help you understand your results and plan your next steps.
Request an appointment with Prima CARE to talk with a Prima CARE endocrinology specialist about male infertility and hormone testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can low testosterone cause infertility?
Yes. Testosterone and other hormones are needed to make sperm. Low testosterone can lead to a lower sperm count and infertility.
Does testosterone therapy affect fertility?
Testosterone therapy can lower sperm production. Men who are planning to have children should talk with a doctor before using it.
How long should we try to get pregnant before seeing a doctor?
See a doctor after one year of trying without success, or after six months if your partner is older than 35.
Where can I find a men's health doctor near me in Fall River, MA?
Prima CARE offers men's health, endocrinology and urology care in Fall River, MA. You can request an appointment online.
What tests check male fertility?
Common tests include a semen analysis, a blood test for testosterone and other hormones, a physical exam and sometimes an ultrasound.
