# What is the definition of male infertility? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-howa-taaref-el-oqom-end-al-rejal Language: en Category: mens_health Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.332Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:52.332Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-howa-taaref-el-oqom-end-al-rejal Male infertility is defined as a man's inability to achieve pregnancy after at least one year of regular, unprotected attempts at conception [\[3\]](). This problem does not necessarily mean an absolute inability to conceive; rather, it indicates a difficulty in achieving pregnancy naturally. ## Understanding Male Infertility Male infertility is a medical condition affecting the male reproductive system, specifically its ability to produce healthy and sufficient sperm, or to deliver it effectively. Infertility can result from a variety of factors, may be temporary or permanent, and its severity can range from mild to severe [\[3\]](). It is important to note that infertility can be caused by a problem in the male partner in about one-third of cases, while in another third, the cause lies with the female partner, and in some cases, no clear cause can be identified [\[3\]](). ## Main Causes of Male Infertility The causes of male infertility are varied and include physical problems in the testicles, blockages in the ducts that carry sperm, hormonal issues, a history of high fever or mumps, genetic disorders, and lifestyle or environmental factors [\[3\]](). Some genetic diseases, such as 48,XXYY syndrome—a chromosomal condition affecting male development—can cause low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) and small testicles, leading to difficulty in conceiving [\[1\]](). Cancer treatments can also affect male fertility. Chemotherapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, stem cell transplants, and some types of surgery may damage the reproductive organs or the endocrine glands that control fertility, leading to temporary or permanent infertility [\[2\]](). For example, radiation directed at the pelvic region or the central nervous system can affect the production of hormones necessary for fertility [\[2\]](). ## When Should You See a Doctor? If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for a year or more without success, it is recommended to see a doctor to undergo necessary examinations [\[3\]](). Early diagnosis can help identify the underlying cause of infertility and develop an appropriate treatment plan. You can learn more about the causes of male infertility, diagnostic tests, and modern treatment options by visiting [Male Infertility: Causes, Diagnosis, and Modern Treatment Options (Arabic)](). ## Next Steps After consulting a doctor, they may recommend semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology [\[3\]](). Other tests may include hormone level testing and sometimes genetic testing to identify any potential genetic disorders [\[3\]](). Based on the results, the doctor may suggest treatment options ranging from medication, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies [\[3\]](). If you are undergoing cancer treatment, it is essential to discuss the impact of the proposed treatment on your fertility with your doctor before starting [\[2\]](). Doctors may recommend fertility preservation methods, such as sperm freezing, which can help maintain your ability to conceive biologically in the future [\[2\]](). ## Medical references - [Male Infertility]() - [48,XXYY syndrome: MedlinePlus Genetics]() - [Male Fertility and Cancer Treatment]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-howa-taaref-el-oqom-end-al-rejal#answer