When Should A Man Decide to Have His Fertility Evaluated?

Subfertility of the male should be considered when a couple has been unable to conceive for 12 months of non-contraceptive, spontaneous intercourse or 6 months if they are over the age of 35. It is better if the couple is using a defined evidence based fertility awareness or natural family planning method however. In this case, 2-3 cycles of properly timed intercourse along with documented peak (ovulation) on the woman’s chart without a positive pregnancy test is reason to take a closer look at fertility.

     Other reasons to suspect subfertility are:

• History of testicular injury or febrile illness.
• Underlying health issues or poor general health.
• Use of medications or illicit drugs, especially anabolic steroids.
• Had a vasectomy and vasectomy reversal.
• Family history of fertility issues or genetic predisposition including cryptorchidism (undescended testicle).
• Sexual dysfunction, low libido, or low energy.
• History of chemo or radiation.
• Environmental exposure to toxins.
• Prior genitourinary surgery, hernia, groin, etc.
• Excessive use of tobacco or alcohol.
• Unusual puberty timing and progression.
• History of obstetrical issues after your conception, exceptionally high or low birth weight.
• Cystic Fibrosis.
• Male breast development.
• Conceived via assisted reproductive technology.
• Miscarriage, especially if there has been more than one.