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Even as fertility conversations evolve, male reproductive health is still weighed down by stigma and misinformation.
Supplements can aid but aren’t instant cures to boosting reproductive health.
When we talk about fertility, male fertility is hardly talked about. Men play an equal role in reproductive health, and overlooking this can delay both diagnosis and treatment. Despite growing awareness around fertility, male reproductive health remains wrapped in misinformation, outdated assumptions, and stigma.
Dr Soma Singh, Associate Director – IVF & Infertility at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Noida, unpacks some of the most persistent myths about male fertility and replaces them with clear, evidence-based facts that every man (and couple) should know.
Myth: Infertility is mainly a woman’s problem.
Truth: This remains one of the most widespread misconceptions. Dr Singh says, “Male factors contribute to nearly half of all infertility cases globally. Causes can include low sperm count, poor motility, hormonal imbalances, varicocele, blocked reproductive tracts, or genetic conditions. Evaluating only the female partner can delay effective treatment, infertility is a shared challenge and should be addressed as such.”
Myth: A man’s sexual performance reflects his fertility
Truth: Many men assume that a strong libido or healthy sex life means good fertility. Dr Singh clarifies, “In reality, sexual desire, erections, and ejaculation do not guarantee healthy sperm. It’s entirely possible for a man to have an active sex life while dealing with low sperm count or abnormal sperm morphology. Only a semen analysis can accurately assess male fertility.”
Myth: Male fertility doesn’t decline with age
Truth: Dr Singh notes, “While men remain fertile longer than women, age does impact sperm quality. After the age of 45, both sperm count and motility tend to decline, and DNA fragmentation increases, potentially raising the risk of certain developmental disorders in offspring, such as autism or schizophrenia.”
Myth: Tight underwear or cycling causes infertility
Truth: Occasional cycling or wearing snug underwear won’t permanently affect fertility in healthy men. Dr Singh states that while excessive heat can temporarily reduce sperm quality, the testicles have natural mechanisms to regulate temperature. However, frequent exposure to high temperatures, such as hot tubs or keeping laptops on the lap for long hours, can negatively impact sperm production.
Myth: Erectile dysfunction equals infertility
Truth: Erectile dysfunction (ED) and infertility are separate medical conditions. Dr Singh says, “ED involves difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection, often due to psychological or vascular issues. Infertility, on the other hand, is related to sperm quality and function. Many men with ED have normal fertility and vice versa. Both are treatable but require distinct approaches.”
Myth: Supplements and superfoods can ‘cure’ infertility instantly
Truth: While nutrients like zinc, selenium, folate, and antioxidants can support sperm health, no miracle food or pill guarantees fertility. Overuse of unregulated supplements can even be harmful. A sustainable approach, balanced diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, and medical guidance yield far better results.
Myth: Male infertility is always permanent
Truth: Most causes of male infertility are treatable or manageable. Dr Singh says, “Hormonal therapy, lifestyle changes, surgery, and assisted reproductive technologies like IVF or ICSI have high success rates. The key is early evaluation. Men should get tested just as promptly as women if conception doesn’t occur within a year of unprotected intercourse.”
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- Location :
Delhi, India, India
- First Published:
