Male Infertility: Causes, Symptoms, Tests & Treatment

Male infertility plays an equally vital role in a couple’s journey to parenthood. At Pearl Singapore Fertility Centre (PSFC), we emphasize awareness about male reproductive health to help individuals make timely decisions.

What Is Male Infertility?

Male infertility refers to a man’s inability to cause pregnancy in a fertile female partner. This depends on sperm quantity, quality, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and the overall function of the reproductive system.


Key Causes of Male Infertility

Understanding the causes of male infertility is crucial. Influencing factors include:

  • Low sperm count or poor sperm quality

  • Poor motility and abnormal morphology

  • Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low testosterone)

  • Genetic or testicular disorders

  • Infections such as STIs

  • Lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, poor diet)

  • Overheating of testicles (tight clothing, hot tubs)


Male Infertility Tests: How Diagnosis Is Done

At PSFC, we offer accurate male infertility tests. The most common one is a semen analysis, which examines:

  • Sperm count

  • Motility

  • Morphology

  • Semen volume and pH

Additional tests include hormonal testing, scrotal ultrasound, and genetic screening.


Male Infertility Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

While male infertility may not always present clear symptoms, you should watch out for:

  • Inability to conceive after a year of unprotected sex

  • Erectile dysfunction or low libido

  • Testicular pain or swelling

  • Hormonal signs like reduced facial/body hair


Can Male Infertility Be Treated or Improved?

Yes. Many men improve fertility naturally or through medical help. Steps include:

  • Eating an antioxidant-rich, fertility-friendly diet

  • Exercising without overexertion

  • Stress management (yoga, counseling)

  • Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol

  • Avoiding heat to the groin

  • Taking doctor-recommended supplements

    Infographic listing diet tips to improve male fertility, showing recommended foods and habits to avoid for better reproductive health


When to See a Male Fertility Specialist

Consult a fertility specialist if:

  • You’re unable to conceive after 12 months

  • You have risk factors or visible symptoms of infertility

PSFC provides evidence-based treatments and compassionate care for male infertility problems.


Treatment Options for Male Infertility at PSFC

TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) for Male Infertility Treatment

Used when sperm is absent in semen (azoospermia).

  • Local anesthesia, minimally invasive

  • Sperm can be used for ICSI or frozen

PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration)

Done when there’s a blockage preventing sperm flow.

  • Painless, fast recovery

  • Ideal for vasectomy cases or congenital absence of vas deferens

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
  • A single sperm is injected into an egg

  • Suitable for low sperm count or motility

  • Often paired with TESA or PESA