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Men's fertility care in Delhi

Male Infertility Treatment & Fertility Care

Infertility is not only a woman's health concern. Male factors contribute to infertility in a substantial proportion of couples, either alone or with female factors, which is why current guidelines recommend evaluating both partners.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ruchi Malhotra, MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology) · Reg. No. 6111 · Last reviewed October 2026
Operation theatre at Sehgal IVF Centre, Delhi
≈ 1 in 2infertile couples involve a male factor, alone or with a female factor
Both partnersshould generally be evaluated, not just the woman
Often silenta man may feel completely healthy and still have abnormal sperm parameters
Understanding male infertility

What is male infertility?

Male infertility refers to difficulty achieving pregnancy because of factors affecting sperm production, sperm quality, sperm transport, ejaculation, sexual function or other aspects of the male reproductive system. The WHO identifies problems with sperm production, number, movement, shape and ejaculation among important causes.

Male infertility does not necessarily mean a man is completely infertile. Many men with abnormal semen results can still become biological fathers, sometimes naturally and sometimes with medical assistance.

It may happen because

  • The testes produce fewer sperm
  • Sperm do not move normally
  • Sperm have abnormal characteristics
  • Sperm cannot reach the semen
  • There is no sperm in the ejaculate
  • Hormonal signals for sperm production are abnormal
  • There is a problem with ejaculation
  • Sexual dysfunction makes intercourse difficult
  • Genetic or structural conditions affect fertility
Sperm-related problems

Count, movement, shape, and absence

One abnormal semen parameter does not automatically diagnose infertility. The overall semen profile and clinical situation need to be considered.

Low sperm count

Oligospermia

Lower-than-expected sperm concentration can reduce the chance of natural conception, though pregnancy may still be possible depending on the overall semen parameters and the female partner's fertility.

Poor sperm motility

Movement

If a large proportion of sperm move poorly, fewer may travel through the female reproductive tract and reach the egg.

Abnormal morphology

Shape & structure

Some sperm may have abnormalities in the head, middle section or tail.

Azoospermia

No sperm in ejaculate

No sperm detected after appropriate lab examination. It can occur because the testes aren't producing enough sperm, production is severely impaired, or sperm are produced but blocked from entering the semen. These need different evaluation and treatment.

Causes

Common causes of male infertility

Male infertility can have many causes. Sometimes a clear cause is identified; in other cases no single cause is found.

Structural & medical

Varicocele

Enlarged veins around the testicle, which in some men may be associated with abnormal semen or reduced fertility. Not every varicocele needs treatment.

Previous infections

Certain infections can cause inflammation, scarring or blockage in the reproductive system.

Previous surgery or injury

Involving the testes, groin, pelvis or reproductive tract, which can affect sperm production or transport.

Hormonal & genetic

Hormonal problems

Hormones regulate sperm production. Problems involving FSH, LH, testosterone or prolactin may affect fertility in selected men. Treatment depends on the cause.

Genetic conditions

Can affect sperm production, testicular development, hormonal function or sperm transport. Genetic testing may be recommended for selected men with very low counts or azoospermia.

Sexual & ejaculation

Ejaculation problems

Can prevent semen from being deposited normally, for example retrograde ejaculation, ejaculatory duct obstruction, neurological conditions or medication-related problems.

Erectile dysfunction

Difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection can make regular intercourse difficult. ASRM recommends assessing sexual function as part of care when relevant.

Lifestyle & environment

Some factors may affect sperm production or reproductive health:

  • Smoking
  • Heavy alcohol use
  • Recreational drugs
  • Obesity
  • Poor diet
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Certain medications
  • Anabolic steroids
  • Excessive heat exposure
  • Occupational / environmental exposures

Lifestyle changes support general and reproductive health, but cannot correct every cause.

Risk factors

What can increase the risk?

  • Previous testicular problems
  • Undescended testicles
  • Testicular injury
  • Varicocele
  • Previous reproductive surgery
  • Certain infections
  • Chemotherapy or radiation
  • Hormonal disorders
  • Genetic conditions
  • Anabolic steroid use
  • Certain medications
  • Smoking
  • Heavy alcohol or drug use
  • Obesity
  • Some environmental exposures

A detailed medical history helps the specialist determine which factors may be relevant.

Symptoms of male infertility

Male infertility often has no obvious symptoms. The main sign may simply be:

Difficulty achieving pregnancy after regular unprotected intercourse

Some men may have symptoms linked to the underlying cause:

  • Erectile problems
  • Low sexual desire
  • Problems with ejaculation
  • Testicular pain
  • Testicular swelling
  • A lump or enlarged veins
  • Reduced facial or body hair
  • Other hormonal symptoms

If these symptoms are present, medical evaluation is appropriate.

Timing

When should a man have a fertility evaluation?

Earlier evaluation may be appropriate when there is a known risk factor. Consider an evaluation if:

  • No pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse
  • The female partner is older or has known fertility concerns
  • A semen test has shown abnormal results
  • History of testicular disease
  • Previous testicular or pelvic surgery
  • History of undescended testicles
  • History of chemotherapy or radiation
  • A known varicocele
  • Problems with erection or ejaculation
  • A previous vasectomy
  • Repeated miscarriages
  • Previous IVF or IUI has not been successful
Evaluation at Sehgal IVF Centre

More than just checking sperm count

The AUA/ASRM guideline recommends a reproductive history and one or more semen analyses as the initial evaluation, with further assessment when abnormalities are found.

Tier 1Initial evaluation
01

Medical & reproductive history

  • Previous pregnancies & children
  • Duration of infertility
  • Sexual frequency
  • Erectile function, ejaculation & libido
  • Previous infections
  • Testicular problems & surgeries
  • Medications & steroid use
  • Smoking, alcohol & drugs
  • Occupational exposures
  • Chemotherapy or radiation
  • Family history
02

Physical examination

  • Testicular size
  • Testicular position
  • Epididymis
  • Vas deferens
  • Varicocele
  • Signs of hormonal problems
  • Other reproductive abnormalities
03

Semen analysis

One of the most important initial tests. The WHO laboratory manual provides standardised methods.

ParameterAssessed
Semen volume
Sperm concentration
Total sperm number
Sperm motility
Sperm morphology
Other characteristics

Illustrative only. One test may not tell the whole story: parameters vary between samples, so an abnormal result may be repeated and interpreted with the full clinical picture.

Tier 2Only when indicated

Hormonal tests

Not needed for every man. May include FSH, testosterone, LH and prolactin, particularly when sperm production is significantly reduced or symptoms suggest a hormonal disorder.

Ultrasound & imaging

When a structural problem is suspected: scrotal ultrasound, Doppler ultrasound, or transrectal ultrasound in selected cases. Not automatically required.

Genetic testing

For selected men with azoospermia, very severe oligospermia or suspected genetic conditions: karyotyping, Y-chromosome microdeletion testing, or CFTR-related testing when congenital absence of the vas deferens is suspected. Genetic counselling may follow.

Sperm DNA fragmentation

Not a routine first-line test. May be considered with recurrent pregnancy loss, repeated unsuccessful assisted reproduction or certain unexplained problems, as discussed in AUA/ASRM guidance.

Abnormal semen report?

Get it reviewed by a fertility specialist

A low count or poor motility doesn't automatically mean biological parenthood is impossible. We'll explain your results, check what else needs testing and discuss the right options for you and your partner.

Reception and waiting lounge at Sehgal IVF Centre, Adarsh Nagar, Delhi
Important

Testosterone and fertility

Men trying to have a baby should not start testosterone replacement therapy without discussing fertility with a doctor. External testosterone can suppress the hormonal signals needed for sperm production and may significantly reduce or stop sperm production in some men.

If you have low testosterone and are trying to conceive, a fertility specialist or reproductive urologist can discuss fertility-preserving approaches.

Treatment

Male infertility treatment

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. There is no single medicine or procedure that treats every type of male infertility.

Correct the cause

Lifestyle changes

  • Stop smoking
  • Avoid recreational drugs
  • Avoid anabolic steroids
  • Limit alcohol
  • Healthy weight
  • Regular exercise
  • Balanced diet
  • Adequate sleep
  • Manage chronic conditions
  • Avoid heat exposure to testes

WHO's 2025 infertility guideline includes healthy diet, activity and quitting tobacco. Helpful, but not a guaranteed cure.

Correct the cause

Medical treatment

Some causes, such as certain hormonal disorders affecting sperm production, can be treated medically. In selected men, medicines may stimulate the body's own reproductive hormone pathways. Treatment depends on the diagnosis.

Correct the cause

Varicocele treatment

If a clinically significant varicocele is associated with infertility and abnormal semen, surgical repair may be considered. Not every varicocele needs treatment; the decision depends on examination, semen parameters, fertility history and the female partner's factors.

Correct the cause

Treatment for sperm blockage

Some men produce sperm normally but a blockage stops it entering the semen (obstructive azoospermia), for example after vasectomy, infection, congenital absence of the vas deferens or surgery. Options may include surgical reconstruction, sperm retrieval or IVF/ICSI.

Assisted conception

IUI

For selected couples with mild male-factor infertility: a semen sample is collected, sperm are processed, and selected sperm are placed in the uterus around ovulation. May not be appropriate when count or motility is severely reduced. About IUI

Assisted conception

IVF

Considered when male-factor infertility is more significant or other treatments haven't worked. Eggs are collected and fertilised in the lab, though conventional IVF may not suit all severe male infertility. About IVF

Male infertility and azoospermia

No sperm in the ejaculate: two different situations

The distinction matters because treatment options differ.

AzoospermiaNo sperm detected in the ejaculate

Obstructive

Sperm production may be present, but sperm can't reach the ejaculate because of a blockage.

  • Vasectomy
  • Congenital absence of the vas deferens
  • Infection
  • Previous surgery

Non-obstructive

The testes have severely reduced or absent sperm production.

  • Genetic conditions
  • Hormonal disorders
  • Testicular injury
  • Certain medical treatments
  • Other testicular conditions

Surgical sperm retrieval

Some men with no sperm in the ejaculate may still have sperm in the reproductive tract or testicular tissue. Depending on the diagnosis, procedures may include:

PESATESATESEMicro-TESE

The technique depends on whether azoospermia is obstructive or due to impaired production. Retrieved sperm can sometimes be used with ICSI. Not every man with azoospermia will have usable sperm, so expected outcomes are discussed individually.

Good to know

Other important questions

Male infertility and IVF/ICSI

Where male-factor infertility is significant, IVF with ICSI may offer a route to fertilisation when enough viable sperm can be obtained. It depends on:

  • Sperm availability
  • Sperm quality
  • Female partner's age
  • Ovarian reserve
  • Egg quality
  • Previous treatment
  • Embryo development
  • Other factors

ICSI is not automatically needed for every mildly abnormal semen analysis.

Male infertility and recurrent miscarriage

Male factors may be relevant in recurrent pregnancy loss. The male partner may have a reproductive history, semen analysis, genetic evaluation and sperm DNA fragmentation testing. AUA/ASRM guidance recommends considering male evaluation, but miscarriage shouldn't automatically be blamed on sperm. Recurrent miscarriage

Can male infertility be cured?

There is no single cure, but some causes can be treated or corrected and others managed with assisted reproduction:

  • Hormonal problems may respond to medical treatment
  • Some obstructions can be surgically corrected
  • Some varicoceles may be treated surgically
  • Sperm may be retrieved from the tract or testicle
  • IUI, IVF or ICSI may help selected couples

Can male infertility be prevented?

Not always, since some causes are genetic, congenital or medical. You can support reproductive health by avoiding tobacco, recreational drugs and anabolic steroids, limiting alcohol, keeping a healthy weight, exercising, managing diabetes and chronic conditions, treating reproductive infections and avoiding reproductive toxins.

Male fertility after cancer treatment

Chemotherapy and radiation can damage sperm production. Men facing potentially fertility-affecting treatment may be advised to discuss sperm freezing (cryopreservation) before treatment begins, when medically possible. Plan early, as some treatments must start quickly.

Male infertility and age

Men produce sperm for longer than women produce eggs, but increasing paternal age may be associated with changes in semen parameters and certain reproductive risks. Age is considered alongside the female partner's age and reproductive health.

At Sehgal IVF Centre

Male infertility treatment at Sehgal IVF Centre

Male infertility evaluation is integrated into the couple's overall fertility assessment.

Evaluation may include

  • Detailed reproductive history
  • Semen analysis
  • Physical examination
  • Hormonal testing when indicated
  • Scrotal imaging when appropriate
  • Genetic testing in selected cases
  • Sexual and ejaculatory function
  • Evaluation for varicocele
  • Assessment of azoospermia
  • Sperm DNA fragmentation in selected cases

Treatment may include

  • Lifestyle counselling
  • Medical treatment
  • Varicocele management
  • Treatment of selected obstructions
  • Sperm retrieval
  • IUI, IVF or ICSI
  • Fertility preservation
  • Donor sperm where appropriate and legally/clinically applicable
Consultation room at Sehgal IVF Centre, Delhi
Why choose us

Why choose Sehgal IVF Centre for male infertility?

Male infertility can have physical, hormonal, genetic and lifestyle causes. A proper evaluation helps identify whether the problem relates to:

  • Sperm production
  • Sperm quality
  • Sperm transport
  • Hormones
  • Sexual function
  • Genetics
  • Testicular health
  • Previous medical treatment

Male infertility shouldn't be treated as a problem belonging to one partner. Both partners may need evaluation so decisions use the complete fertility picture.

FAQs

Frequently asked questions about male infertility

Still have questions? Call us on +91 7827219633.

What is male infertility?

Male infertility is difficulty achieving pregnancy because of a male reproductive factor affecting sperm production, sperm quality, sperm transport, ejaculation or sexual function.

What causes male infertility?

Common causes include low sperm count, poor sperm movement, abnormal sperm morphology, azoospermia, varicocele, hormonal problems, genetic conditions, infections, reproductive tract obstruction and sexual or ejaculation problems.

Can male infertility be treated?

Yes. Some causes can be treated medically or surgically. Depending on the diagnosis, IUI, IVF, ICSI or sperm retrieval may also be considered.

What is the first test for male infertility?

A semen analysis is one of the key initial tests. A reproductive history and clinical evaluation are also important.

Does low sperm count mean infertility?

Not necessarily. A low sperm count can reduce the chance of natural conception, but it does not automatically mean that pregnancy is impossible. Other semen parameters and the fertility of both partners also matter.

Can a man with zero sperm have a biological child?

In some cases, yes. Men with azoospermia may sometimes have sperm that can be retrieved from the reproductive tract or testicular tissue and used with ICSI. However, this depends on the cause of azoospermia and whether viable sperm can be obtained.

What is ICSI?

ICSI is a form of IVF in which a single sperm is injected directly into an egg. It is often considered for significant male-factor infertility or certain previous fertilisation problems.

Is ICSI required for every man with abnormal sperm?

No. ICSI is not automatically required for every abnormal semen analysis. The appropriate treatment depends on the severity and type of sperm abnormality and the couple's overall fertility situation.

Can varicocele cause male infertility?

A varicocele can be associated with abnormal semen parameters in some men. However, not every varicocele requires treatment. Evaluation by an appropriately trained specialist is important.

Can testosterone treatment cause infertility?

Yes. External testosterone can suppress the body's hormonal signals needed for sperm production and may reduce or stop sperm production in some men. Men trying to conceive should discuss testosterone treatment with a doctor before starting it.

Can lifestyle changes improve sperm quality?

Healthy lifestyle changes can support general and reproductive health. However, they cannot correct every cause of male infertility. The effect may also take time because sperm production is a continuous biological process.

Does smoking affect male fertility?

Smoking can negatively affect reproductive health. Quitting smoking is an important part of maintaining overall health and may support fertility.

Can alcohol affect sperm?

Heavy alcohol use can negatively affect health and may contribute to reproductive problems. Limiting excessive alcohol is advisable when planning pregnancy.

Can male infertility cause miscarriage?

Male factors may contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss in some couples, but miscarriage has many possible causes. When recurrent pregnancy loss occurs, appropriate evaluation of both partners may be considered.

Can male infertility be treated without IVF?

Sometimes. Depending on the cause, treatment may include lifestyle changes, medical treatment, surgery or IUI. IVF/ICSI may be considered when other approaches are not appropriate or have not been successful.

How long should we try before getting a male fertility test?

A fertility evaluation is commonly recommended after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse when pregnancy has not occurred. Earlier evaluation may be appropriate when there are known fertility risk factors or when the female partner has age-related fertility considerations. Both partners should generally be evaluated rather than testing only the woman.

Can male infertility be caused by stress?

Stress can affect sexual function and overall wellbeing, but infertility should not automatically be blamed on stress. If conception is difficult, proper medical evaluation is more useful than assuming stress is the cause.

Can male infertility be inherited?

Some causes of male infertility have genetic or chromosomal components. Genetic testing may be recommended in selected men with severe sperm abnormalities or azoospermia.

What happens if semen analysis is abnormal?

Your doctor may recommend repeating the semen analysis, reviewing your medical history and performing additional tests depending on the results. One abnormal result does not necessarily provide the complete diagnosis.

Book a male infertility consultation

Male infertility is common, medically evaluable and sometimes treatable

A low sperm count, abnormal motility or another semen abnormality does not automatically mean biological parenthood is impossible. Depending on the cause, treatment may include medical or surgical management, IUI, IVF, ICSI or sperm retrieval. If you're having difficulty conceiving, both partners should be evaluated.

Medically reviewed

Dr. Ruchi Malhotra, MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Medical registration no. 6111

Last reviewed: October 2026 · Last updated: October 2026

Medical disclaimer: This page is intended for general educational purposes and does not replace medical consultation, diagnosis or treatment. Male infertility can have many different causes, and treatment depends on the individual diagnosis and the fertility factors of both partners. If you are experiencing difficulty conceiving or have an abnormal semen analysis, consult a qualified fertility specialist or appropriate male reproductive specialist for an individualised evaluation.

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