Infertility Symptoms in Men
Infertility symptoms in men can be vague. They may go unnoticed until a man tries to have a baby.
Symptoms depend on what is causing the infertility. They can include:
• Changes in hair growth
• Changes in sexual desire
• Pain, lump, or swelling in the testicles
• Problems with erections and ejaculation
• Small, firm testicles
When to See the Doctor
• If you are under 35 and have been trying to get pregnant without
success for a year, see your doctor. Women 35 and older should see
their doctor after six months of trying.
• Blood, urine, and imaging tests can be done to discover why you are
having trouble getting pregnant. A sperm analysis can be done to
check a man’s sperm count and the overall health of the sperm.
• Your doctor may refer you to a reproductive endocrinologist. That’s
a doctor who specializes in infertility. You will be asked questions
about your infertility symptoms and medical history.
• Before you go to the doctor, write down the following information
and take it to your next doctor’s appointment:
• All the medications you take, including prescriptions, vitamins,
minerals, supplements, and any other drugs bought without a prescription.
• How often you have unprotected sex, how long you have been trying, and the date of the last time you tried to get pregnant.
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• Body changes or other symptoms you have noticed.
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• Dates of any surgeries or treatments in the past, especially those
involving the reproductive tract.
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• Any radiation or chemotherapy you have had.
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• How much you smoke, how much alcohol you drink, and any illegal
drug use.
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• Any history of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
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• Any genetic disorder or chronic illness, such as diabetes or thyroid
disease, in you or your family.
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• Listen to your body. Tell your doctor any time you notice a symptom. Early diagnosis of an infertility problem may improve your
odds of getting pregnant.