Male infertility often goes unnoticed — doctor lists key warning signs men shouldn’t ignore

Fertility challenges affect both men and women, yet male infertility is frequently overlooked until a couple struggles to conceive. In an Instagram post on October 31, Dr Vishal Thakur, gynaecologist and centre clinical director at Indira IVF in Vadodara, highlighted the most common signs of male infertility and urged men not to ignore them.

Male infertility: more common than many think

“Male infertility is the cause in nearly one out of three couples facing trouble conceiving,” Dr Thakur says, adding that many men delay seeking help because they assume infertility is primarily a women’s issue.

He stresses that age, lifestyle, and overall health all affect sperm quality. “Stress, smoking, obesity, and poor diet are key contributors,” he notes. He also busts the myth that men are “always fertile,” pointing out that hormonal issues, infections, or anatomical problems can reduce fertility — many of which are treatable if detected early.

Symptoms to watch for

According to Dr Thakur, these signs may indicate fertility issues:

• Low libido: A long-term drop in sexual desire may indicate hormonal imbalance.

• Erectile difficulties: Trouble maintaining an erection can signal poor blood flow or hormone-related problems.

• Pain, swelling, or lumps in the testicles: These may suggest conditions such as varicocele or infection, both of which can affect sperm production.

“Men often feel embarrassed discussing such symptoms, but delaying care can reduce the chances of conception,” he warns.

When to seek medical help

If a couple has been trying to conceive for over a year — or six months if the woman is over 35 — Dr Thakur recommends that both partners get evaluated. “Infertility is a medical condition, not a measure of masculinity,” he says. “Early diagnosis leads to better treatment outcomes.”

Recognising the signs and seeking timely help, he adds, can improve fertility outcomes and help break the stigma surrounding male infertility.