Male Factor
Infertility

Male factor infertility refers to difficulty achieving pregnancy due wholly or partly to factors affecting the male partner. Male factors may contribute to infertility through problems with sperm production, sperm count, movement (motility), shape (morphology), reproductive tract obstruction, sexual function, or hormonal health.

Possible causes include varicocele, hormonal disorders, genital infections, genetic conditions, previous testicular injury or surgery, certain medications, smoking, excessive alcohol use, obesity, heat exposure, and other lifestyle or medical factors. In some men, a specific cause may not be identified.

Evaluation of the male partner is an important part of a couple's infertility assessment and should ideally occur alongside evaluation of the female partner. Initial assessment generally includes a detailed medical and reproductive history and semen analysis. Depending on the findings, hormonal tests, ultrasound, genetic investigations, or referral to an andrologist or urologist may be recommended.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include lifestyle modification, treatment of infections or hormonal abnormalities, management of specific reproductive conditions, or surgical treatment in selected cases. When required, assisted reproductive techniques such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may be considered in coordination with fertility specialists.

A couple-based approach helps avoid unnecessary delays and allows treatment to address fertility factors affecting either or both partners.