When infertility is discussed, the conversation often centers on women. But in reality, male-factor infertility plays a significant role in nearly half of all cases.
At Seattle Sperm Bank, we believe it’s time to shine a brighter light on men’s reproductive health, with accuracy, empathy, and action.
Understanding the Scope of the Issue
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines male-factor infertility as “the inability to conceive a child after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse.” By that definition, infertility affects approximately 15% of couples in the U.S.; that’s millions of families navigating a challenging journey. Male-factor issues are the sole cause in about 20% of these cases and contribute to an additional 30–40%, meaning men are involved in up to half of all infertility diagnoses.
Despite this, male fertility has historically received less attention than female fertility. The result is a serious gap in awareness and treatment, one that can delay diagnosis and cause emotional strain.
What Healthy Sperm Looks Like
According to the Mayo Clinic, the normal sperm range is from 15 million to more than 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen. A man is considered to have a low sperm count if his semen contains fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter. Low sperm count doesn’t always mean infertility, but it does make conception more difficult and can be a red flag for underlying health issues.
The causes of abnormal sperm production are complex. The National Library of Medicine notes that age (particularly men over 40), being overweight, excessive alcohol use, certain medications, exposure to radiation, environmental toxins, and frequent exposure to high temperatures can all contribute to the risk. Another common cause is a varicocele, or enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, which can sometimes be corrected with a relatively simple surgical procedure called a varicocelectomy.
These factors underscore why early screening matters. As we explain in our resource on how and why to test male fertility, semen analysis and related tests can detect issues quickly and give families clarity on next steps.
Testing Male Fertility: Planning, Not Blame
One of the most challenging aspects of male infertility is that it doesn’t always match the stereotype of who might be affected. Some men with low sperm counts live extremely healthy lifestyles, with no obvious risk factors.
That’s why our male-factor infertility guide emphasizes that testing is critical for everyone, regardless of how healthy or active they appear. Fertility challenges can happen to anyone.
When a couple or individual is struggling to conceive, evaluating male fertility isn’t about pointing fingers; it’s about gaining clarity. Semen analysis, hormone testing, and genetic screening can uncover treatable conditions or guide families toward the right fertility treatment, such as IUI, IVF, or ICSI.
Studies have consistently shown that incorporating male testing early improves efficiency, reduces costs, and minimizes emotional strain. It also ensures that care is equitable, rather than placing the burden solely on women. Evaluating both partners from the start makes family building more compassionate and more effective.
Breaking the Stigma
It’s time to normalize conversations around men’s fertility. Cultural silence around male infertility often prevents men from seeking support and can lead to feelings of shame or inadequacy. Breaking down the stigma requires shifting the focus from outdated ideas of masculinity to the medical reality: fertility challenges are common, and they deserve the same attention and empathy as any other health condition.
Our team aims to make discussions about fertility inclusive and supportive. We provide education, emotional resources, and testing guidance so that no one feels left out of their own family-building journey. Fertility issues are not a personal failing; they’re a medical condition that can be addressed with care and science.
Why Male Fertility Matters
Paying attention to male-factor infertility isn’t just about fairness; it’s about improving outcomes. When men’s fertility is evaluated early:
- Treatable conditions are identified sooner.
- Couples avoid unnecessary procedures and delays.
- Emotional stress is reduced by sharing responsibility.
- Families save time, money, and heartache.
By making men’s fertility part of the conversation from the beginning, we create a more balanced and hopeful approach to family building.
We Care About Men’s Fertility
Male-factor infertility is common, affecting nearly half of couples experiencing fertility challenges. Defined by the CDC as the inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse, it can be caused by factors ranging from age and lifestyle to medical conditions like varicocele. While sperm counts under 15 million per milliliter can present challenges, they don’t define identity or worth.
Infertility can happen to anyone, even those who appear to be the epitome of health. By breaking stigma, testing early, and supporting both partners equally, we can make family building more effective, inclusive, and compassionate.
The entire team at SSB is committed to ensuring that men’s fertility gets the attention it deserves, because understanding both sides of the equation is the best way to plan for parenthood.
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