Symptoms & Diagnosis of Male Infertility

Symptoms of Male Infertility

While the inability to conceive is the primary symptom of male infertility, not all symptoms will be obvious until they have been uncovered by fertility testing. Our fertility specialists can recommend specific testing based on your symptoms, medical history, and conception attempts.

For men who have a known hormonal imbalance, inherited disorder, psychological conditions, or a long-term illness, some symptoms of infertility may be evident, such as:

• Difficulty performing sexually, such as reduced sexual desire
• Difficulty maintaining an erection
• Difficulty ejaculating, or only ejaculating small amounts of fluid
• Swelling, pain, or a lump around or in the testicles
• Decreased facial or body hair
• Recurrent respiratory infections or an inability to smell

Am I at a Higher Risk for Male Infertility?

Although many symptoms of male infertility aren’t always present, you may be able to determine if you are at a higher risk for male infertility if you have experienced any of the following:

• Earlier or later than average puberty
• Undescended testicles
• Exposure of the genitals to frequent high temperatures (such as hot tubs, saunas, or even a laptop on the lap)
• Past or current prostate inflammation or genital infections
• Groin injury or twisting (torsion) of the testicles
• Hernia repair

How Is Male Infertility Diagnosed?

Infertility must be diagnosed by a fertility specialist. At an initial consultation, we will review your history, family goals, and any additional factors that may be affecting your fertility. We will then recommend fertility testing—typically a semen analysis—to pinpoint causes of infertility.

Fertility testing and infertility diagnosis are essential stages in your fertility treatment, allowing our specialists to create a plan that meets your family’s needs.