Occasionally, Dr. Cletus Georges gets questions about male infertility. Though it’s always best to consult with a fertility specialist in this regard, he has heard his fair share of myths and misconceptions about male fertility from some patients. It’s crucial to dispel some of these myths to get on the right track to male reproductive health.
1. Infertility is rare among men.
Not true. 20% of couples may experience infertility from the male’s side. 30% of couples experience infertility from both male and female sides. Men may contribute to up to 50% of the infertility factor and should get tested as thoroughly as their partners.
2. Taking hormones fights against infertility.
Dr. Cletus Georges explains that while hormone replacement therapy is a method to combat low testosterone, it won’t help your chances to conceive. It may even do the opposite as it could suppress your testicles’ natural sperm production, resulting in worsened infertility.
3. It’s a genetic concern.
This is another myth that if there are infertile family members, it increases the risk of a man being infertile. Male infertility is not a hereditary trait at all. There may be genetic conditions that may cause infertility, but infertility itself is not passed down.
4. Age is not a factor in infertility.
Though some men can continue to conceive children well into their 70s, Dr. Cletus Georges explains that even at 45 years old, some men may have trouble conceiving with their partners. Furthermore, there is a much more significant risk of miscarriage around this age and beyond. It may also increase the risk of chromosomal disorders among offspring.
5. Use boxers, not briefs, to prevent infertility.
This is another reasonably popular myth, and Dr. Cletus Georges says that there is no medical evidence to support this concern. While it’s true that sperm prefer colder environments, wearing briefs does not affect this temperature factor, nor do they pose any infertility risks to you.
Again, Dr. Cletus Georges recommends consulting a specialist or a physician if you have concerns about male fertility. Knowing how both partners can contribute to the conception of a child can help you greatly in finding the appropriate treatments.