Men’s Health Is Half the Fertility Equation – What Every Man Should Know Before Trying for a Baby
At No.1 Fertility, a leading fertility clinic in Melbourne and Sydney, I often see the same story unfold. A couple sits across from me after months of trying to conceive. We start by discussing the woman’s fertility tests, blood work, scans, ovulation tracking, and then I ask, “Have we checked your partner yet?”
That’s when things go quiet. Many men have never considered their own fertility assessment or sperm health.
This Movember, we’re shining a light on the often-overlooked half of fertility: men’s reproductive health.
Male Factor Infertility Is Half the Equation
At our IVF clinics in Melbourne and Sydney, we see that male factor infertility contributes to around 40–50% of all infertility cases. In some couples it’s the main cause, and in others it’s a shared factor. Yet most men who visit us have never had a semen analysis test or sperm health check.
Quick Fertility Facts
• 1 in 6 Australian couples experience infertility
• Sperm parameters such as count, motility, and morphology are outside normal ranges in roughly half of those cases
• Varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum) are found in 15% of all men, but up to 40% of men with infertility, and can often be fixed with a simple day procedure
Lifestyle Factors That Impact Male Fertility
Our fertility specialists in Melbourne and Sydney see how lifestyle can have a big effect on male fertility and sperm quality:
• Scrotal heat: Frequent saunas, hot baths, or prolonged laptop use on your lap can reduce sperm production by 30–40%. So, keep an icepack handy!
• Smoking and vaping: Both cause oxidative stress and sperm DNA fragmentation. The good news? Sperm quality often improves within three months of quitting.
• Alcohol: More than 14 drinks per week can suppress testosterone and affect sperm motility.
• Body weight: A BMI over 30 disrupts hormones. Losing just 5–10% of body weight can restore hormonal balance and improve sperm count.
These are simple but powerful changes that can improve fertility and overall health.
How to Perform a Fertility Self-Check
Every man should know how to perform a testicular self-exam. In a warm shower, gently roll each testicle between your thumb and fingers. They should feel smooth, firm, oval and painless to touch. One may hang lower, and that’s normal.
If you notice a lump, swelling, or pain, book an urgent review with your GP or one of our fertility specialists in Melbourne or Sydney for an urgent review. Early assessment helps protect your fertility as well as detecting potential health risks such as testicular cancer.
When to Book a Semen Analysis
If you’ve been trying to conceive for 12 months (or 6 months if your partner is over 35), it’s time to schedule a semen analysis. It’s a simple, Medicare-rebated fertility test for men that provides results within 48 hours.
At No.1 Fertility Melbourne and No.1 Fertility Sydney, our bulk-billed semen analysis and at-home semen test options make it easy to understand your reproductive health early.
At-Home Semen Analysis
No.1 Fertility has introduced the option of Sapyen at-home semen analysis for patients in Melbourne and Sydney to make fertility testing even easier. This option complements our in-clinic testing, giving men more flexibility and privacy. Kits include all instructions, equipment, and pre-paid return postage.
Our team ensures that there is clear guidance every step of the way for patients, both from our bookings team over the phone and information flyers. This helps men overcome common barriers such as lab access or discomfort, making male fertility testing more accessible than ever.
Patients can take their results to their GP for interpretation or contact us directly for a consultation. Our Melbourne and Sydney fertility specialists can discuss the results, give advice, and organise further fertility investigations if that is necessary.
Fertility Is a Shared Journey
Fertility is not just a women’s health issue, it’s a shared experience. Ignoring male factors delays diagnosis and treatment for both partners. The good news is that most causes of male infertility are identifiable and treatable.
This Movember, we encourage every man to take ownership of their fertility. A single sperm analysis could change your journey toward parenthood.
Ready to Take the First Step?
• Book a bulk-billed semen analysis or fertility assessment in Melbourne or Sydney
• Schedule a complimentary 20-minute nurse consultation (no referral needed)
• Learn about sperm freezing, IVF treatment costs, and male fertility preservation with our trusted fertility specialists.
You can also raise awareness for men’s health issues like prostate and testicular cancer by donating directly to Movember: Click here to donate or start a fundraiser
