Male Infertility

Nursing Knowledge

Male Infertility

Male factor infertility involves issues that affect a man’s ability to conceive a child. Common causes include problems with sperm production, function, or delivery, as well as lifestyle and environmental factors. Nursing tasks include educating about potential causes, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and supporting clients emotionally while encouraging men to seek medical evaluation and treatment and in facilitating discussions about fertility options.

Last updated: December 15, 2025

Causes of male factor infertility

34% of cases of male infertility remain unexplained.

Undescended testicles (8%)
Urogenital infection (9%)
Sexual factors (6%)
Systemic disease (3%)
Varicocele (17%)
Hypogonadism (10%)
Immune system factors (5%)
Other causes (8%):
- Nutritional issues
- Genetic disorders
- Obesity
- Endocrine disorders
- Steroid use
- Sperm quality
- Medications, supplements, drug use
- Structural issues

How to assess male clients presenting with infertility

History and physical examination

Medical history: sexual development; severe systemic illness or trauma; infections; surgical procedures; drugs and environmental toxins; sexual history
Complete physical exam, assess for obesity, endocrine disorders, general health

Semen analysis

Collected after 2–4 days of ejaculatory abstinence
Evaluation of semen volume, pH, sperm count, concentration, motility, morphology, and leukocytes

Ultrasound of accessory glands and ducts

Structural issues should be ruled out.

Genetic testing

Genetic tests can rule out genetic disorders, such as Klinefelter syndrome.

Endocrine testing

Assess total testosterone, LH, FSH, and additional labs, as indicated.

How common is male infertility?

Male infertility affects approximately 7% of men and is a contributing factor in around 50% of all infertility cases.

Nursing tips to support clients experiencing infertility

Discuss lifestyle factors (diet, smoking, etc)
Stress the importance of medical evaluation by a specialist
Recognize the emotional impact of infertility and offer support through empathetic listening and encouraging the discussion of feelings
Inform about fertility treatments and refer to support services
Encourage open communication with the partner

Female Infertility

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