Your TTC Strategy 10: Determine Whether Early Infertility Evaluation Is Right for You

Potential Problems for Men

The signs of potential fertility problems in a prospective father include anything that may interfere with sperm production or delivery of sperm to the vagina such as:

• Age greater than 45 years. Although it is possible for a man in his eighties to father a child, the length of time to conceive increases significantly over 45.



• Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection.



• Inability to ejaculate during intercourse.



• History of injury to the testicles or groin that could affect sperm production.



• History of infections of the prostate, epididymis, bladder, or testicles. This also includes a history of sexually transmitted infections.



• History of mumps as a teenager, which can damage sperm production.



• History of a hernia repair or an undescended testicle. Surgical corrections of these problems sometimes can lead to scarring of the tubes that transport sperm.



• The presence of a varicocele (a varicose vein of the testicle).



• Taking prescription medications that may have an impact on sperm production.



• Smoking, drug use, and use of moderate amounts of alcohol.



• Men exposed to a high level of chemical toxins at work or at home.



• Men who have had a vasectomy reversal. The greater the time between vasectomy and reversal, the more likely that antisperm antibodies may be present that can adversely affect conception.



• Men who have had chemotherapy or radiation for cancer.



• Family history of cystic fibrosis or other genetic abnormality.



• Major medical problems such as autoimmune diseases, heart disease, or organ transplant.

Family Planning Boards

Having difficulty conceiving? Do you think it may be time to see a fertility specialist? These are tough questions to face, but it can be made a bit easier when you have the support, guidance, and advice from other women who've been there. Come share your concerns, questions, and fears with your friends in the Family Planning Zone!

Your next TTC strategy: Know Your Options—Infertility Evaluation and Treatments.