1. Low sperm count
One of the most obvious signs of male infertility is a lower than average sperm count. This means that there are fewer sperm in a man’s semen than usual, which can make it more difficult to conceive. A healthy sperm count is generally between 15 million and 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen. If a man’s count falls below this range, it may be a sign that he is infertile.
2. Abnormal sperm shape or motility
Not only is the quantity of sperm important, but so is their quality. Abnormal sperm morphology (shape) or motility (movement) can also indicate male infertility. Ideally, sperm should have a long tail, a round head and normal motility so that they can swim towards the egg and fertilize it. If a man’s semen contains a large percentage of abnormally shaped or immobile sperm, it can make conception more difficult.
3. Erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) occurs when a man is unable to get or maintain an erection suitable for sexual intercourse. While there are many factors that can cause ED, it can also be a sign of male infertility. When a man is unable to achieve an erection, he may not be able to ejaculate or produce semen. This can make conception impossible, even if there is no problem with the number or quality of his sperm.
4. Low sex drive
Low libido, or sex drive, is another common symptom of male infertility. If a man is not interested in sex, or doesn’t feel a strong desire to have sex, it can make it difficult to conceive. Low testosterone levels, stress, and other medical conditions can all contribute to a decrease in sex drive. If this is the case, it is important to talk to your doctor about possible treatment options.
5. Pain or discomfort in the testicles
Pain or discomfort in the testicles can also indicate male infertility. Testicular pain can be caused by a variety of factors, including infection, injury, or inflammation. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to permanent damage to the testicles, which can affect a man’s fertility. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your testicles, make sure to see your doctor as soon as possible.
6. Hormonal imbalances
Hormonal imbalances can also be a sign of male infertility. Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, and is responsible for many of the physical characteristics associated with being male. If a man’s testosterone levels are too low, it can lead to a decrease in sperm production and fertility. Hormonal imbalances can be caused by a variety of factors, including stress, weight gain, age, and certain medical conditions.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, or if you have been trying to conceive for over a year without success, it is important to talk to your doctor. A fertility specialist can conduct a series of tests to determine if there is an underlying issue with your fertility, and can recommend treatment options to help you conceive. These may include lifestyle changes, medications, or fertility treatments such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
In conclusion, recognizing male infertility can be challenging, as there are often no obvious symptoms. However, if you are experiencing low sperm count, abnormal sperm shape or motility, erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, testicular pain, or hormonal imbalances, it is important to seek medical attention. By addressing these issues, you can take the necessary steps to improve your fertility and increase your chances of conceiving.