Male infertility contributes to nearly half of all instances of couples struggling to conceive — yet there is a significant gap in understanding and treatment options.
Kathleen Lin, M.D., MSCE
Reproductive Endocrinologist, RMA Seattle and Bellevue
Infertility impacts millions of couples worldwide, with male infertility contributing to nearly 40% of cases. Despite this, male reproductive health has received less attention than female infertility, leaving significant gaps in understanding and treatment options. Most people remain unaware that elements such as age, genetics, and lifestyle, which have traditionally been associated with women’s fertility, also have a significant impact on male fertility.
Male fertility research has historically been overshadowed by a stronger focus on female fertility. Recently, however, there has been a shift. Reproductive endocrinologists, urologists, and researchers are dedicating more attention to male-specific factors like sperm quality, genetic influences, and the effects of aging.
Improving understanding
Advances in genetic testing and other cutting-edge technologies are enabling more precise evaluations of male fertility and offering new insights into how male reproductive issues affect fertility outcomes. Research leaders like those at IVI RMA, who have long been at the forefront of fertility research, are pushing this agenda even further, recognizing the need to address both male and female factors equally for comprehensive fertility care. The company has reproductive endocrinologists who are dual-trained in both female and male reproductive medicine so that comprehensive care can start at the very first visit. Not only is this appreciated by patients, but it allows a complete understanding that leads to better outcomes.
Recent studies are helping to shift perspectives on male fertility. For example, a study led by RMA reproductive endocrinologist Francesca Barrett and a team of researchers at IVI RMA New Jersey analyzed over 2,100 biopsied embryos and found that advanced paternal age (≥50 years) is linked to an increased risk of segmental aneuploidy — chromosomal abnormalities that can reduce embryo viability.
This challenges the common belief that men can father children at any age and do not have a “biological clock.” This research suggests, however, that male fertility does decline with age, particularly after 50. While men can remain fertile longer than women, older age is associated with reduced sperm quality, lower motility, and an increased risk of genetic abnormalities in offspring. This finding underscores the importance of considering male age and its impact on fertility in reproductive medicine.
As infertility conversations evolve, it’s clear that fertility is a shared responsibility. Addressing both male and female factors equally leads to better solutions for those facing infertility challenges.
