Statistics show infertility affects one in seven couples and dealing with not being able to have a child frustrates men as well as women.
There are two times men should worry about fertility:
- When they want to start a family
- When they have symptoms of infertility
Over the years, a lot of emphasis has been on women being infertile.
Women get tested early and women try a lot of procedures to have a child.
Men, for the most part, assumed it wasn’t their problem so they waited until both were frustrated to get tested.
Men should focus as much on testing in the beginning stages of trying to start a family as women.
After all, they and their partner should know upfront of any challenges they may face so all can be addressed early.
A doctor visit should be scheduled any time a man is having unusual symptoms related to his
reproductive organs, prostate, or bowels.
This is a must for all men whether single or married, whether planning to start a family or not.
Symptoms of a problem
Some symptoms of sexual dysfunction seem unrelated to reproduction while others clearly could be a
significant problem.
Symptoms include:
- Problems with erection or ejaculation
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Inability to small
- Pain, a lump, or swelling in the testicles
All of these are severe enough symptoms to see a doctor for a thorough examination.
You should also see a doctor early if your partner is over 35 years old.
Age affects women’s reproduction more than men and time is ticking so you need to be sure of your sexual function upfront.
Men also have decreased hormones as they age, so it may be good to see a doctor if you feel you have
hormonal issues and are in your 30s or 40s.
Symptoms of hormonal problems could be a loss of facial hair, a bulging waist, or a loss of muscle.
Conclusion
Men can no longer ignore the possibility that infertility could be affecting them as much as their partner.
Early diagnosis helps pave the way for solutions that could lead to a successful pregnancy.
