Male fertility is an important part of the fertility picture.
Concerns involving sperm count, movement, shape, or sperm production may make conception more difficult, but an abnormal semen analysis does not automatically mean that pregnancy is impossible.
At Longevity Fertility Centre, we provide individualized fertility care for men with sperm-related fertility concerns.
In-person and online appointments are available in Calgary and Edmonton.
Understanding Male Fertility
Common male fertility concerns may include:
- Low sperm count
- Low sperm concentration
- Reduced sperm motility
- Abnormal sperm morphology
- Low total motile sperm count
- Azoospermia
- Hormonal concerns
- Varicocele
- Ejaculatory problems
Male and female fertility factors can also occur at the same time, so both partners should generally be considered during fertility evaluation.
Semen Analysis
A semen analysis is one of the main tests used to evaluate male fertility.
It may measure:
- Semen volume
- Sperm concentration
- Total sperm count
- Motility
- Progressive motility
- Morphology
One abnormal result does not necessarily mean that a man is infertile. Sperm results can vary between samples, so repeat testing may sometimes be recommended.
Low Sperm Count
Low sperm count means that fewer sperm are present in the semen than expected.
Possible causes may include:
- Hormonal abnormalities
- Varicocele
- Previous infection
- Testicular conditions
- Certain medications
- Testosterone or anabolic steroid use
- Genetic factors
- Previous chemotherapy or radiation
Sometimes no clear cause is identified.
The significance of a low sperm count also depends on sperm motility, morphology, female fertility factors, and how long pregnancy has been attempted.
Low Sperm Motility
Sperm motility refers to how well sperm move.
Reduced motility may make it more difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize an egg.
However, motility should be interpreted together with sperm concentration, morphology, and the couple’s overall fertility history.
Abnormal Sperm Morphology
Sperm morphology refers to sperm shape and structure.
A low morphology result does not automatically mean that natural conception is impossible or that IVF is required.
Morphology is only one part of a semen analysis and should be interpreted together with the other sperm parameters.
Our Approach to Male Fertility
We review the complete fertility picture, including:
- Semen analysis results
- Previous fertility history
- Duration of infertility
- Current medications and supplements
- Medical history
- Previous surgery
- Previous fertility treatment
- Female partner fertility factors
If significant sperm abnormalities are present, additional assessment by a reproductive urologist or other male fertility specialist may be appropriate.
Testosterone and Male Fertility
Men trying to conceive should tell their physician if they are using testosterone or anabolic steroids.
External testosterone can suppress sperm production and may significantly reduce sperm counts.
Men who wish to preserve fertility should discuss testosterone treatment with an appropriate physician.
Male Fertility and Lifestyle
General health may also affect reproductive health.
It can be helpful to review:
- Smoking
- Alcohol use
- Recreational drugs
- Anabolic steroids
- Medications
- Weight and metabolic health
- Sleep
- Exercise
- Occupational or environmental exposures
Lifestyle changes may support overall health, but they should not replace appropriate evaluation when sperm abnormalities are significant.
Male Fertility and IVF / ICSI
IVF may be considered when male fertility factors significantly reduce the chance of natural conception or IUI success.
ICSI is a laboratory technique in which one sperm is injected directly into an egg.
It may be considered when there are significant concerns involving:
- Sperm count
- Motility
- Morphology
- Fertilization
- Other male fertility factors
The fertility clinic determines whether conventional IVF or ICSI is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does low sperm count mean I am infertile?
No. A low sperm count may reduce the chance of conception, but it does not automatically mean pregnancy is impossible.
Can I get someone pregnant with low sperm motility?
Yes, pregnancy may still be possible. The likelihood depends on the degree of reduced motility and other male and female fertility factors.
Does abnormal morphology mean I need IVF?
Not necessarily. Morphology should be interpreted together with the rest of the semen analysis.
Should I repeat an abnormal semen analysis?
Sometimes. Semen parameters can vary between samples, so repeat testing may provide a clearer picture.
Can testosterone improve sperm production?
No. External testosterone can suppress sperm production and may significantly reduce sperm counts.
When should I see a male fertility specialist?
Further evaluation may be appropriate if there is azoospermia, very low sperm count, persistent abnormal semen analysis results, hormonal concerns, or other significant male fertility findings.
Male Fertility Care in Calgary and Edmonton
If you have concerns about sperm count, motility, morphology, or other semen analysis findings, we can review your fertility history, previous investigations, and current fertility plan.
In-person and online appointments are available in Calgary and Edmonton.