Are There Symptoms of Male Infertility?

When discussing infertility, most conversations are focused on female factors. For example, it’s a fairly well-known fact that women’s ovarian reserves and egg quality diminish as they get older. What many people may not realize is that infertility is just as common in men as it is in women.

Unfortunately, in spite of its prevalence, male infertility is not discussed at worst, and dominated by myths and misconceptions at best. Because conventional wisdom claims that male fertility lasts forever, many men don’t realize that their chances of conceiving diminishes significantly as they get older.

The topic is so overlooked in conversations about infertility that some men may even be experiencing symptoms without even realizing it.

Possible Symptoms of Male Infertility

The main sign that a man may be infertile is the inability to conceive a child. In some cases, there may not be any other overtly obvious symptoms. However, there are some subtle signs that can indicate underlying fertility issues. The external symptoms include:

• Changes in sexual functions, such as decreased libido, difficulty maintaining an erection, or difficulty with ejaculation

• Less body hair or sudden inability to grow facial hair

• Decreased ability to smell

• Gynecomastia (an increase in male breast tissue)

• Pain and swelling in the testicles

Some of these symptoms, such as changes in body hair, indicate a hormonal imbalance, which is often associated with male infertility. Other symptoms may signify other conditions that may or may not be related to infertility.

How To Be More Proactive About Your Fertility Health

If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it’s not a bad idea to see a fertility specialist and get a semen analysis done, especially if you have been trying to conceive without success. Having your semen tested will determine once and for all whether you’re having a fertility issue.

If you are faced with possible infertility, it’s better to get tested sooner rather than later. The sooner you get tested, the sooner your doctor can come up with a treatment plan to address any symptoms or underlying conditions.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re concerned about your fertility and would like to speak to a specialist about getting your semen tested, please connect with the experts at the Fertility Center of California.