Male Fertility 101: What every couple should know about the other half of the equation

Male fertility 101: Why it deserves equal attention

When couples start trying to conceive, the focus often lands on the woman’s fertility first — but male factor infertility plays a role in up to 40% of couples. In this video, Dr. Paul Shin, urologist and male fertility expert with Shady Grove Fertility, takes a closer look at how male fertility works, why it matters, and how small steps can make a big difference.

Male factor infertility is more common thank you think

According to Dr. Shin, male infertility can appear on its own or alongside a female factor. Causes range widely from congenital or chromosomal conditions to lifestyle and medical factors, many of which are correctable with proper evaluation and care.

When to test fertility

Conventional wisdom says couples should pursue fertility testing after 6–12 months of unprotected intercourse, but Dr. Shin notes there are exceptions.

If testing early would help relieve anxiety — or if you have known health issues (like prior surgeries, hormonal problems, or chronic conditions) that could affect fertility — it’s smart to test sooner rather than later.

The semen analysis: A simple first step

A semen analysis is one of the most informative and straightforward ways to assess male fertility. This test measures:

• Semen volume
• Sperm count
• Motility (movement)
• Morphology (shape)

Each factor offers insight into the ability to achieve pregnancy naturally — and provides a foundation for next steps if intervention is needed.

Healthy habits to support fertility

When it comes to optimizing sperm health, Dr. Shin keeps it simple: stick to fundamentals of healthy living.

• Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
• Limit alcohol
• Avoid smoking
• Take a daily multivitamin with antioxidants
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly

No extreme diets or miracle supplements required — just sustainable, healthy habits that support overall and reproductive health.

The timeline of sperm production

One key insight Dr. Shin highlights is how long it takes for sperm improvements to show up.

Sperm production is a constant process, but each sperm cell takes about 2½ to 3 months to mature before it appears in the ejaculate. That means if a man makes lifestyle changes, starts medications, or undergoes a procedure to improve fertility, results might not appear for 3–6 months.

This timing is especially important when coordinating treatment with a female partner, particularly if she is over 35, when fertility naturally declines faster.

Treatment options for male fertility

Dr. Shin outlines several ways SGF helps men improve or restore fertility, depending on the underlying cause:

• Hormonal optimization to support testosterone and FSH levels, which regulate sperm production
• Surgical correction of blockages or prior vasectomies
• Sperm retrieval procedures for men without ejaculated sperm
• Varicocele repair to improve sperm count and motility

Each option is individualized — the goal is to maximize a couple’s chance of conception in the most efficient way possible.

The bottom line

As Dr. Shin reminds us, fertility is a shared journey. Men continue producing sperm throughout life, but understanding how to support and optimize that process can save precious time and emotional energy.

Whether you’re just beginning your family-building journey or seeking a second opinion, the Shady Grove Fertility Center for Male Fertility offers expert evaluation, advanced treatment options, and compassionate care every step of the way.

Medical contribution by Paul R. Shin, M.D.

Paul R. Shin, M.D., is board certified in urology. As director of reproductive urology, Dr. Shin optimizes treatment outcomes for patients affected by male factor infertility.