About 11 percent of reproductive-age couples in the United States have trouble conceiving or sustaining a pregnancy. About one-third of these cases are due to male fertility problems, about one-third are related to female fertility problems, and the rest are due to factors involving both partners or to unexplained causes.
If you've had regular, unprotected sex for more than a year (or six months if you're older than 35) without conceiving, see your doctor. About 65 percent of couples that get treatment for a fertility problem are eventually able to have a successful pregnancy, according to Resolve, the national infertility association.
A fertility specialist will usually give you and your partner an initial examination. If a semen analysis isn't normal, or if anything in your medical or reproductive history indicates you need a more thorough evaluation, you may be referred to a urologist or other male reproduction specialist who can recommend treatment and help you and your partner decide which assisted reproductive technology options to pursue.
Sometimes, there's a genetic reason for male infertility that could be passed down to children. To rule out this possibility, your doctor may order blood tests and refer you to a genetic counselor to help you understand the results. Read on to learn about the common causes of male infertility and available treatments.
Lifestyle factors and medical history
Certain lifestyle choices as well as your medical history can affect your reproductive system and fertility. You may be more likely to have trouble conceiving if you:
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