Why Male Fertility Deserves More Attention
Fertility challenges are often portrayed as a women’s issue, but science shows a very different picture. Male factors contribute to nearly half of all infertility cases. Despite this, men are often left out of fertility assessments, conversations, and care. It’s time to rebalance that equation.
When couples face trouble conceiving, testing usually starts with the woman. Most men aren’t evaluated unless there’s an obvious red flag. In fact, studies show that only around 18 to 27 percent of men are included in initial infertility evaluations. That means many cases of male factor infertility go undetected for months or even years, delaying effective treatment and increasing emotional stress for couples.
This isn’t just a medical issue. It’s also cultural. Talking about sperm quality, semen testing, or male reproductive function is still taboo in many circles. Men may feel too embarrassed, ashamed, or unaware that they might be part of the fertility equation. The silence around this issue has led to widespread underdiagnosis and a lack of support.
The numbers are hard to ignore. Male factors are involved in up to 50 percent of infertility cases. One-third of IVF cycles are performed without properly evaluating sperm. Average sperm counts have dropped more than 50 percent in the past four decades. And yet, only a tiny share of global research funding is directed toward male reproductive health. This is more than a fertility gap. It’s a quiet crisis.
Sperm health doesn’t just determine whether conception is possible. It also reflects broader male health. Low sperm motility or poor morphology can signal hormonal imbalances, metabolic dysfunction, and even chronic disease risks. In this way, sperm health acts as a window into a man’s overall well-being. Ignoring it leads to ineffective treatments and unnecessary strain on both partners.
The good news is that things are starting to shift. More clinics are making semen analysis a standard part of early fertility evaluations. At-home testing tools like Mate Health’s lab-grade semen analysis kits are making the process easier and more private than ever. Men no longer need to wait months for an appointment or face uncomfortable clinic visits. They can get accurate, physician-trusted results from home.
Testing early matters. Sperm parameters like count, motility, and DNA fragmentation can highlight concerns long before more complex treatments are necessary. That’s why Mate Health’s approach includes deeper insights than many in-clinic tests, helping men understand not just what their numbers are, but what they mean.
As Eric Lacy explains in his LinkedIn article, normalizing the conversation about male fertility is essential. The science is clear. Now the narrative needs to catch up. Every couple deserves a full view of their fertility picture, and every man deserves access to the tools that can help him be part of the solution.
Understanding your fertility should never be an afterthought. Learn more today at Mate Health.
- Post written by Val Demiri.