When to See a Male Fertility Specialist: 7 Key Signs
When to See a Male Fertility Specialist: 7 Signs
Many men wait too long to get a fertility check, often because there are no obvious symptoms or they feel awkward asking. Yet male factors are involved in a large share of couples' fertility problems, and some causes are easy to treat if found early. This guide explains when to get checked and seven signs that mean you should see a male fertility specialist.
This article is general information and does not replace personal medical advice.
How long should you wait before getting checked?
The NHS advises seeing a GP if you have not conceived after a year of regular unprotected sex. You should go sooner if you already know of a possible problem. Women aged 36 or over are also advised to seek help sooner, and a male check is worth doing at the same time as your partner's.
A semen analysis is quick, non-invasive and often the first test, so there is little reason to delay it. Read what to expect in our guide to a first male fertility appointment.
7 signs you should see a male fertility specialist
You have been trying for a year or more. This is the standard point to seek help. Do not wait longer if you are worried.
You have a history of testicular problems. Undescended testicles, testicular injury, infection, surgery or cancer can all affect sperm production.
You have had cancer treatment. Chemotherapy can severely reduce sperm production, and recovery varies.
You use testosterone, anabolic steroids or similar products. Long-term steroid misuse can reduce sperm count and movement. Read more about testosterone replacement therapy and fertility and anabolic steroids.
You have had an abnormal semen analysis. Low sperm count, poor movement or abnormal shape deserve a specialist opinion, particularly if the result is repeated.
You have had a vasectomy. If you want children after a vasectomy, a specialist can explain the options. See our guide to vasectomy reversal.
You have low testosterone symptoms or ejaculation problems. Low sex drive, erection difficulty, tiredness, or trouble releasing semen during sex can point to hormone or other problems.
Many men with fertility problems have no symptoms at all, so a normal sex life does not rule out a problem.
What can a male fertility specialist do?
A specialist looks for the cause of the problem and explains your options. This usually involves:
reviewing your history and examining you
arranging and interpreting a semen analysis, and blood tests or a scan if needed
treating causes that can be corrected, such as a varicocele, a hormone problem or an infection
advising on assisted conception, such as IUI, IVF or ICSI, when it is appropriate
offering surgical sperm retrieval when there are no sperm in the semen. See surgical sperm retrieval and micro-TESE
Seeing a specialist early can save months of uncertainty for you and your partner.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should a man worry about fertility? There is no single age. If you have been trying for a year, or know of a risk factor, get checked whatever your age.
Can a man be infertile with no symptoms? Yes. Many men have no symptoms, and abnormal semen is sometimes unexplained, so testing is the only way to know.
Do I need a GP referral first? On the NHS, your GP is the usual starting point. For private care, check with the clinic.
Can lifestyle changes help? Some factors, such as drug use and certain medicines, can affect semen quality, so tell your specialist about everything you take.
Will I need surgery? Not necessarily. Many men need only tests, advice or medicine. Your specialist will explain if surgery could help.
Book a male fertility consultation
If any of these signs sound familiar, book a consultation online with The Male Factor Fertility Clinics London, Barnby St, London NW1 1AA.
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