In about half of all infertility cases, the male fertility is a contributory factor. In many of those cases, men have no idea; their symptoms are not visible; no warning signs, nothing shows up until a test is done.

Male fertility problems are among the most frequently identified causes of delayed conception, and in most cases, they are clinically treatable. Fertility problems in males are diagnosable at any stage. What determines the outcomes is not the condition itself. It is how quickly it is found.

This guide outlines the clinical signs to look for, the diagnostic process, and the stage at which testing is appropriate.

What are the signs of male fertility problems?

The signs of male fertility problems are not easily visible. Most conditions affecting sperm quality do not have any physical symptoms, and that is why the number of men diagnosed after a long stage of infertility is so high. But certain signs must be examined as soon as possible.

Sign What it may indicate
Unable to conceive even after 12 months of trying Low sperm count, motility, or morphology issues
Reduced libido or erectile difficulty Hormonal imbalance affecting testosterone levels
Testicular pain, swelling, or heaviness Varicocele or structural abnormality
Low ejaculate volume Blockage or gland dysfunction in the reproductive tract
History of STIs, infections, or groin surgery Scarring affecting sperm transportation
Previous chemotherapy or radiation Damage to sperm-producing cells in the testes

Important: The absence of such indicators does not exclude the possibility of a fertility issue in men’s reproductive health.

What are the most common male fertility problems?

Knowing the most common male fertility problems​ helps you understand what a diagnosis may involve and what your options are if a problem is identified.

Low sperm count (Oligospermia)

It is the most common of all male fertility problems, and is characterised by less than 15 million sperm per ml of ejaculate.

Poor motility (Asthenospermia)

It is sperm which are unable to swim effectively towards the egg, and thus the likelihood of fertilisation is reduced.

Abnormal morphology (Teratospermia)

It is the sperm’s deformed shape that limits its ability to penetrate the egg.

Azoospermia

It may be either obstructive or non-obstructive in origin.

Varicocele

It is the swelled scrotal veins that increase the temperature of the testicles and affect the production of sperm.

What causes male problems with fertility?

Male problems with fertility are broadly categorised into medical, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Identifying the category helps guide the most relevant clinical response.

Medical

  • Hormonal disorders of the production of testosterone, FSH, or LH
  • Genetic disorders such as Kinesfelner syndrome or deletions of Y-chromosomes
  • Infections such as mumps orchitis or untreated STIs, causing scarrings
  • Varicocele, one of the common causes of male infertility, is surgically fixable

Lifestyle

  • Smoking and recreational drug use decrease sperm count and enhance the DNA fragmentation
  • High alcohol consumption reduces testosterone and lowers the quality of sperm
  • Obesity and the use of anabolic steroids inhibit the natural production of sperm

When should you get tested for fertility problems?

Timing matters. The sooner a fertility problem in male health is detected, the broader the options.

  • After 12 months of unsuccessful conception, both partners should undergo testing.
  • After 6 months, in case of the female partner being above 35 years old, or when there is a known risk factor like previous infection or surgery
  • Immediately, when there is a history of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or a genetic condition that has been known to cause infertility
  • Proactively, in case you would like to have a picture of your reproductive health before you attempt to conceive

A semen analysis costs £199, and a complete clinical report is available within 3 working days.

Conclusion

Common male fertility problems are not an indication of health, lifestyle, or masculinity. They are clinical conditions that respond to early, correct diagnosis, as all clinical conditions do.

Delay is not a way to enhance performance; testing is. A semen analysis is the most straightforward step. It takes 30 minutes, costs £199, and provides the information required to take a step forward with clarity.

Book your semen analysis with The Male Fertility Clinic and take a step ahead towards a clear answer.