Male Infertility: Causes, Testing, and Natural Support

Understanding the root causes of male infertility and how integrative care, testing, and lifestyle strategies support sperm health

Couple reviewing a pregnancy test while exploring holistic and integrative support for male infertility

When couples struggle to conceive, the assumption often defaults to a female issue. In reality, this framing is incomplete—and increasingly inaccurate. Male infertility is a significant and growing contributor to fertility challenges, yet it remains underrecognized, under-evaluated, and frequently overlooked in early workups.

Current research shows that male factors are solely responsible for roughly 20–30% of infertility cases and contribute to up to 50% overall (1). At the same time, sperm counts across North America, Europe, and Australia have declined dramatically over the past several decades, with no clear evidence that this trend has stabilized. These shifts signal a broader issue in male reproductive health that extends beyond isolated diagnoses or single lab values (2)

One of the challenges is that male infertility is often silent. Many men experience no obvious symptoms, no pain, and no disruption to daily function—other than difficulty achieving pregnancy with a partner. As a result, fertility evaluations may focus disproportionately on the female partner, delaying identification of male-specific drivers that could be addressed earlier and more effectively (3).

The encouraging reality is that male fertility is highly responsive to intervention. Unlike egg development, which is finite, sperm are produced continuously. This means that targeted changes—when guided by appropriate testing and a systems-based approach—can lead to meaningful improvements in a relatively short timeframe.

This guide explores male infertility through a holistic lens. We will review how male fertility works, common root causes that impair sperm health, and how functional medicine and acupuncture can support reproductive function naturally—either as a standalone approach or alongside assisted reproductive technologies. The goal is not only conception, but optimizing the health of both partners as they prepare for pregnancy and parenthood.


Why Male Infertility Is More Common Than Most Couples Realize

One of the primary reasons male infertility is underestimated is not lack of data, but lack of early evaluation. In many cases, fertility workups focus first—and sometimes exclusively—on the female partner, even though male factors are equally likely to contribute to difficulty conceiving.

Male partners are often evaluated later in the process, or only after female testing has already been exhausted. When testing does occur, it may be limited to a basic semen analysis without further investigation into hormonal regulation, metabolic health, inflammation, or environmental exposures that directly influence sperm production and function.

Compounding this issue is a concerning global trend: sperm counts have declined by an estimated 50–60% since the 1970s in industrialized regions including North America, Europe, and Australia, with no evidence that this decline has plateaued (2).

Many men with impaired fertility feel entirely well and report no overt symptoms, which further delays identification of underlying contributors (3). As a result, male fertility issues are frequently missed until couples reach advanced stages of intervention.

From a clinical perspective, this delay represents a missed opportunity. Male fertility is one of the most modifiable components of reproductive health when addressed early. Because sperm are produced continuously, improvements in metabolic regulation, hormone balance, inflammatory load, oxidative stress, and toxic burden can translate into measurable changes within a few months.

Several factors contribute to why male infertility is underestimated:

  • Lack of obvious symptoms: Many men with abnormal sperm parameters feel entirely well and may have no pain, discomfort, or disruption to daily functioning.

  • Cultural bias: Fertility challenges have historically been framed as a female responsibility, leading to delayed or incomplete evaluation of male partners.

  • Incomplete evaluations: Male testing may be delayed, limited to a basic semen analysis, or interpreted too narrowly without further investigation into hormonal, metabolic, or environmental contributors.

  • Overreliance on assisted reproductive technologies: Assisted reproductive techniques can bypass male factors rather than identifying and addressing the underlying drivers of impaired sperm production or function.

These gaps in recognition and evaluation often leave men without a clear understanding of what male infertility actually involves. Unlike many medical conditions, impaired fertility in men is not defined by a single symptom or diagnosis, and it cannot be assessed accurately by assumptions alone.

To understand why male infertility is frequently missed—and how it can be addressed—it’s essential to first clarify what male infertility means clinically and why symptoms are often absent.

What Male Infertility Actually Means (And Why Symptoms Are Often Silent)

Male infertility is defined clinically as the inability of a man to achieve pregnancy with a fertile female partner after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse. This definition is functional rather than symptomatic—meaning it is based on reproductive outcome, not on how a man feels day to day.

Unlike many health conditions, male infertility often develops without obvious warning signs. Many men with impaired sperm parameters have normal energy levels, normal sexual function, and no pain or discomfort. Because spermatogenesis occurs internally and continuously, disruptions in sperm count, motility, morphology, or DNA integrity can progress quietly for years before fertility is tested directly (3).

When symptoms do occur, they are often nonspecific and may not immediately raise concern for fertility issues. These can include changes in libido, erectile or ejaculatory dysfunction, breast tissue changes, reduced facial or body hair, or intermittent testicular pain or swelling (3). However, a significant proportion of men with abnormal semen analyses report none of these findings.

From a clinical standpoint, male fertility depends on several tightly regulated systems working together:

  • The hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis coordinating hormonal signaling

  • Adequate testosterone production and receptor sensitivity

  • Proper testicular temperature and blood flow

  • Efficient sperm maturation, transport, and protection from oxidative damage

Disruption at any point in this process—whether hormonal, metabolic, inflammatory, vascular, or environmental—can impair fertility without producing overt symptoms. This is why fertility challenges are often discovered only after a couple has been trying to conceive for months or longer.

Understanding male infertility as a systems-level condition, rather than a single diagnosis, is critical. It explains why surface-level assessments may miss the root cause and why comprehensive evaluation is often necessary to identify modifiable contributors to impaired sperm health.

How Male Fertility Works: From Hormones to Sperm Quality

Male fertility depends on a coordinated sequence of hormonal signaling, cellular energy production, vascular support, and protective mechanisms that allow sperm to develop, mature, and function effectively. Disruption at any stage can impair fertility—even when no single lab value appears dramatically abnormal.

The process begins with hormonal signaling from the brain. The hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to produce luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). LH signals the testes to produce testosterone, while FSH supports spermatogenesis within the seminiferous tubules. Balanced communication along this hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis is essential for normal sperm production.

Within the testes, sperm development is highly energy-dependent. Spermatogenesis requires adequate mitochondrial function, sufficient nutrient availability, and protection from oxidative stress. Because sperm cells are particularly vulnerable to reactive oxygen species, even low-grade inflammation, toxin exposure, or metabolic dysfunction can compromise motility, morphology, and DNA integrity without affecting overall testosterone levels.

Temperature regulation and blood flow also play a critical role. The testes are positioned outside the body to remain slightly cooler than core temperature. Conditions that impair venous drainage or increase local heat—such as prolonged sitting, tight clothing, frequent hot tub or sauna use, or varicocele—can negatively affect sperm production and quality.

After sperm are produced, they mature and gain motility in the epididymis before mixing with seminal fluid from the prostate and seminal vesicles. This fluid provides nutrients, buffering capacity, and protection during transport. Prostate inflammation, infections, or oxidative stress at this stage can further impair sperm function despite normal counts.

Because this process is continuous and takes approximately three months from start to finish, male fertility reflects current physiological conditions, not just long-term health history. This is why targeted interventions—when they address hormonal regulation, metabolic health, inflammation, oxidative stress, and environmental exposures—can lead to measurable improvements in sperm parameters within a relatively short timeframe.

This systems-based understanding of male fertility explains why single-marker testing often falls short and why comprehensive evaluation is essential before determining the most effective path forward.

Common Causes of Male Infertility

Male fertility depends on multiple systems working together—from hormone signaling and sperm production to maturation, transport, and ejaculation. When any part of this chain is disrupted, fertility can be impaired. In most cases, multiple factors overlap, rather than a single cause acting alone.

Sperm Quantity Issues (Low Sperm Count / Oligospermia)

Low sperm count is defined as fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Reduced concentration lowers the likelihood that sperm will reach and fertilize an egg, especially when combined with other abnormalities.

Common contributors include hormonal imbalance, toxin exposure, metabolic dysfunction, inflammation, and nutrient deficiencies.

Sperm Motility Impairment

Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm to move effectively through the female reproductive tract. Even when counts are normal, poor forward movement can significantly reduce fertility.

Motility is particularly sensitive to:

  • Oxidative stress

  • Mitochondrial dysfunction

  • Inflammation

  • Environmental and chemical exposures

Abnormal Sperm Morphology

Morphology describes sperm shape and structure. Abnormal morphology can impair the sperm’s ability to penetrate and fertilize the egg.

Morphology issues are commonly associated with:

  • Endocrine disruption

  • Poor metabolic health

  • Chronic inflammation

  • Nutrient insufficiencies

Hormonal Imbalances

Healthy spermatogenesis depends on coordinated signaling between testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Disruption of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis can impair sperm production even when testosterone levels appear within reference ranges.

Contributing factors may include:

  • Chronic stress

  • Thyroid dysfunction

  • Excess estrogenic burden

  • Insulin resistance

  • Inflammatory signaling

Varicocele and Vascular Factors

A varicocele is characterized by enlarged veins in the scrotum that impair venous drainage. This can increase testicular temperature and reduce oxygen delivery, negatively affecting sperm production and quality.

Varicocele is one of the most common potentially reversible contributors to male infertility and often coexists with other drivers.

Genetic Contributors

Certain genetic conditions, including Y-chromosome microdeletions or chromosomal abnormalities, can impair sperm production or quality. While these factors are not modifiable, identifying them helps guide expectations, treatment planning, and assisted reproductive decisions.

Lifestyle and Environmental Exposures

Lifestyle and environmental factors exert a significant influence on sperm health. Common contributors include:

  • Smoking and nicotine exposure

  • Alcohol, marijuana, and illicit drug use

  • Poor sleep and chronic stress

  • Obesity or being underweight

  • Exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, pesticides, plastics, and other environmental toxins (3,8,10)

Because these factors frequently coexist, male infertility is rarely resolved by addressing a single parameter. Effective evaluation requires identifying the root contributors driving impaired sperm health, which is why a systems-based approach is essential before determining the most appropriate interventions.


Why a Systems-Based Approach Improves Male Fertility Outcomes

Because male fertility is influenced by multiple interconnected systems, addressing isolated findings rarely produces lasting results. A systems-based approach evaluates how hormonal signaling, metabolic health, inflammation, oxidative stress, detoxification capacity, and lifestyle factors interact to influence sperm production and function.

Conventional fertility care often centers on single parameters—such as sperm count or testosterone levels—or moves quickly toward assisted reproductive technologies when those values fall outside reference ranges. While these tools can be valuable, they do not explain why sperm quality is impaired or identify modifiable contributors that may be limiting fertility.

A systems-based framework looks upstream. Rather than asking only whether sperm parameters are abnormal, it asks:

  • What is disrupting hormonal regulation?

  • Is metabolic or mitochondrial function compromised?

  • Is inflammation or oxidative stress damaging sperm integrity?

  • Are environmental or chemical exposures interfering with endocrine signaling?

  • Is nutrient absorption and utilization sufficient to support spermatogenesis?

This approach is particularly relevant for male fertility because sperm are produced continuously. Improvements in internal physiology—such as reduced inflammatory burden, improved insulin sensitivity, optimized hormone signaling, and enhanced antioxidant defenses—can translate into measurable changes in semen parameters within a single spermatogenic cycle.

Equally important, a systems-based approach does not exclude conventional care. Instead, it complements it. Optimizing male physiology can improve natural conception potential and may also enhance outcomes for couples pursuing assisted reproductive technologies by improving sperm quality at the time of treatment.

By shifting the focus from symptom management to root-cause evaluation, a systems-based approach provides clearer direction for testing, targeted intervention, and long-term reproductive health.

Testing That Matters for Male Fertility

Because male infertility is rarely driven by a single factor, meaningful progress depends on comprehensive, targeted evaluation rather than isolated screening. Testing helps identify why sperm parameters are impaired and guides a personalized plan to improve fertility outcomes.

A foundational starting point is a semen analysis, which evaluates sperm count, motility, morphology, and overall semen volume. While this test is essential, it represents only a snapshot of sperm output and does not explain underlying drivers when results are abnormal—or even when they appear borderline normal.

To move beyond surface-level findings, additional testing is often warranted based on clinical history and initial results.

Core testing commonly used in male fertility evaluation

Semen analysis
Assesses sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and total sperm count. Abnormalities here indicate the need for deeper investigation rather than serving as a final answer.

Comprehensive hormone panel
Evaluates total and free testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol, sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG), and prolactin. Hormonal imbalance can impair spermatogenesis even when testosterone falls within reference ranges.

Thyroid panel
Includes TSH, free T3, and free T4. Thyroid dysfunction can disrupt metabolic signaling, hormone balance, and sperm production.

Metabolic and lipid markers
Insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and metabolic inflammation are increasingly recognized contributors to impaired sperm quality and hormonal dysregulation.

Toxin and environmental exposure testing
Identifies heavy metals, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and other environmental burdens that can interfere with hormone signaling and increase oxidative stress (10).

Gut health testing
Assesses digestion, absorption, inflammation, and microbial balance. Poor gut function can impair nutrient availability, detoxification pathways, and hormone metabolism.

Immunologic infertility testing
In selected cases, evaluates antisperm antibodies or immune-mediated factors that may interfere with sperm function or fertilization.

Genetic testing Immunologic infertility testing
In certain cases, may also be appropriate, particularly when sperm counts are severely low or absent, or when there is a history of recurrent assisted reproductive failure.

The goal of this testing approach is not to generate excessive data, but to identify actionable patterns—hormonal, metabolic, inflammatory, environmental, or nutritional—that can be addressed systematically. When these drivers are corrected, sperm quality often improves as a downstream effect.

Once testing clarifies the underlying contributors, treatment can be tailored accordingly. This may include targeted nutrition, supplementation, lifestyle modification, detoxification strategies, stress regulation, and integrative therapies such as acupuncture.

How Acupuncture Supports Male Fertility

Acupuncture is increasingly used as part of an integrative approach to male infertility because it targets physiological regulation, not symptom suppression. Rather than acting on a single pathway, acupuncture influences multiple systems that are directly involved in sperm production, hormone balance, and reproductive function.

One of the primary mechanisms by which acupuncture supports male fertility is through improved blood flow to the testes and reproductive organs. Enhanced circulation helps regulate testicular temperature, supports oxygen and nutrient delivery, and creates a more favorable environment for spermatogenesis. These effects are particularly relevant in cases involving vascular factors, inflammation, or oxidative stress.

Acupuncture also exerts a regulatory effect on the endocrine system. Research suggests that acupuncture can influence signaling along the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, supporting more balanced secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and testosterone (4). This hormonal regulation is essential for normal sperm production and maturation, especially in men whose testosterone levels appear “normal” but whose fertility remains impaired.

In addition, acupuncture has been shown to support sperm quality parameters, including motility, morphology, and concentration (4). These improvements are thought to be mediated through reduced oxidative stress, improved mitochondrial efficiency, and modulation of inflammatory signaling—all of which play critical roles in sperm health.

Stress reduction is another clinically meaningful benefit. Chronic psychological and physiological stress can suppress reproductive hormone signaling and impair sperm production. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms while promoting parasympathetic nervous system activity (7). This shift toward a more regulated nervous system state supports hormonal balance and overall reproductive function.

Acupuncture may also be beneficial for men experiencing sexual dysfunction, such as psychogenic erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation. Clinical studies suggest acupuncture can reduce the incidence of psychological erectile dysfunction (5) and exert ejaculation-delaying effects in selected cases (6), further supporting reproductive outcomes.

Importantly, acupuncture is not positioned as a replacement for conventional fertility care. Instead, it functions as a complementary therapy that can enhance natural conception potential and improve sperm quality in men pursuing assisted reproductive technologies. When integrated with functional medicine, lifestyle modification, and appropriate medical care, acupuncture provides a low-risk, systems-oriented strategy to support male fertility.

Lifestyle and Nutritional Strategies That Support Male Fertility

While individualized care is essential, certain lifestyle and nutritional foundations consistently influence male fertility across populations. Because sperm production reflects current physiological conditions, daily habits can meaningfully affect sperm quality within a single spermatogenic cycle.

Lifestyle factors that influence sperm health

Toxin and substance exposure
Smoking, nicotine use, marijuana, illicit drugs, and excessive alcohol consumption are all associated with reduced sperm count, impaired motility, and abnormal morphology. These exposures increase oxidative stress and disrupt endocrine signaling, directly affecting spermatogenesis.

Heat exposure
The testes require a temperature slightly below core body temperature for optimal sperm production. Frequent use of hot tubs or saunas, prolonged laptop use on the lap, tight clothing, and extended sitting can increase scrotal temperature and negatively impact sperm quality.

Sleep and circadian regulation
Consistent, restorative sleep supports testosterone production, hormone regulation, and metabolic health. Chronic sleep deprivation is associated with lower testosterone levels and impaired sperm parameters.

Stress management
Chronic stress activates the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, which can suppress reproductive hormone signaling. Incorporating stress-reduction practices such as breathwork, meditation, moderate exercise, or acupuncture supports nervous system regulation and fertility function.

Physical activity and body composition
Regular, moderate movement improves circulation, insulin sensitivity, and hormonal balance. Both obesity and being underweight are associated with impaired sperm quality, highlighting the importance of metabolic balance rather than extremes.

Foods and Exposures to Limit

Certain dietary and environmental exposures are associated with impaired sperm quality and are best minimized when optimizing male fertility:

  • Ultra-processed foods, which often contain preservatives, additives, and chemical residues that increase inflammatory and oxidative burden

  • Refined carbohydrates and excess added sugars, which promote insulin resistance, glycation, hormonal dysregulation, and oxidative stress

  • Industrial seed oils (such as soybean, corn, canola, sunflower, and safflower oils), particularly when consumed in ultra-processed foods, due to their susceptibility to oxidation and contribution to inflammatory signaling

  • High alcohol intake, which can disrupt testosterone production and impair spermatogenesis

  • Large amounts of soy products in men with existing sperm abnormalities, due to potential estrogenic effects (9)

  • Pesticides, microplastics, and endocrine-disrupting chemicals, commonly found in food packaging, non-organic produce, and environmental exposures, which interfere with hormone signaling and sperm integrity (10)

Reducing overall toxic burden—both dietary and environmental—supports hormonal balance, mitochondrial function, and sperm DNA integrity.

Nutritional foundations for male fertility

Diet plays a central role in sperm development, DNA integrity, and hormone regulation. A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory dietary pattern supports these processes more effectively than isolated dietary changes.

Key nutritional considerations include:

  • Antioxidants
    Found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Antioxidants protect sperm from oxidative damage and support motility and DNA integrity (8).

  • Omega-3 fatty acids
    Present in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts. Omega-3s support cell membrane fluidity, hormone signaling, and sperm structure.

  • Zinc
    Essential for testosterone production, sperm motility, and DNA synthesis. Common sources include oysters, seafood, lean meats, beans, and nuts.

  • Folate (vitamin B9)
    Supports sperm production and reduces the risk of chromosomal abnormalities. Found in leafy greens, legumes, and fortified foods.

  • Vitamin D
    Adequate vitamin D status is associated with improved sperm motility and reproductive hormone regulation.

Supplementation as Targeted Support — Not a Standalone Solution

Certain nutrients play important roles in sperm energy production, antioxidant defense, hormone regulation, and DNA integrity. In clinical practice, supplementation is most effective when used to correct identified deficiencies or support specific physiological bottlenecks, rather than as a generalized fertility stack.

Commonly used supplements in male fertility care may include coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and L-arginine. These compounds support mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and contribute to healthy spermatogenesis when appropriately matched to individual needs.

Because excessive or mismatched supplementation can be ineffective—or counterproductive—selection and dosing are best guided by testing and clinical evaluation rather than self-prescribing.

Addressing Male Infertility Through Integrative Care

Male infertility is most effectively addressed when evaluation and treatment extend beyond isolated lab values and single interventions. An integrative care model combines comprehensive testing, personalized treatment strategies, and supportive therapies to address the root contributors affecting sperm health and reproductive function.

At the clinical level, this approach begins with identifying the physiological patterns driving impaired fertility—whether hormonal dysregulation, metabolic imbalance, inflammation, oxidative stress, toxic burden, or nutrient insufficiency. From there, care is tailored to correct these imbalances using targeted nutrition, lifestyle modification, and evidence-informed therapies rather than generalized recommendations.

This framework reflects a systems-based model in which fertility is viewed within the broader context of overall health rather than as an isolated reproductive issue. By supporting endocrine regulation, mitochondrial function, detoxification capacity, and stress resilience, integrative care creates a more favorable internal environment for spermatogenesis.

Functional & Integrative Medicine

For many men, adjunctive therapies further enhance outcomes. Acupuncture, nutritional therapy, and lifestyle interventions work synergistically to support hormonal signaling, circulation, and nervous system regulation. When indicated, advanced diagnostics help refine treatment plans, clarify underlying contributors, and allow progress to be monitored over time.

Advanced Functional Lab Testing

Importantly, integrative care does not replace conventional fertility treatments. Instead, it complements them. Optimizing male physiology can improve natural conception potential and may also enhance outcomes for couples pursuing assisted reproductive technologies by improving sperm quality prior to intervention.

Take the Next Step

For couples navigating infertility, evaluation typically begins with both partners. Addressing male factors early often reduces unnecessary delays, improves efficiency of care, and supports healthier conception and pregnancy outcomes.

You may request a free 15-minute consultation with Dr. Martina Sturm to review your health concerns and outline appropriate next steps within a root-cause, systems-based framework.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Male Infertility

How common is male infertility?

Male factors are solely responsible for approximately 20–30% of infertility cases and contribute to up to 50% overall. Declining sperm counts over recent decades have made male infertility an increasingly important contributor to fertility challenges.

When should a couple seek evaluation for infertility?

If pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse, both partners should be evaluated. If the female partner is 35 or older, evaluation is recommended after 6 months.

What are the signs of male infertility?

Many men have no obvious symptoms. When present, signs may include low libido, erectile or ejaculatory dysfunction, breast tissue changes, reduced facial or body hair, or testicular pain or swelling. In many cases, infertility is identified only through testing.

What tests are used to evaluate male fertility?

A semen analysis is foundational. Depending on results and clinical history, additional testing may include hormone panels, thyroid testing, metabolic markers, toxin or environmental exposure testing, gut health assessment, and, in some cases, genetic or immunologic testing.

What lifestyle factors negatively affect sperm quality?

Smoking, excessive alcohol intake, marijuana or illicit drug use, chronic stress, poor sleep, obesity or being underweight, frequent heat exposure to the testes, ultra-processed foods, refined carbohydrates and sugars, and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals can all impair sperm quality.

Can diet improve male fertility?

Yes. A nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory diet that supports metabolic health and reduces oxidative stress is associated with improved sperm count, motility, and DNA integrity. Key nutrients include antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, folate, and vitamin D.

Do supplements help with male infertility?

Supplements can be helpful when used to address identified deficiencies or physiological needs. Commonly used supplements include coenzyme Q10, L-carnitine, zinc, selenium, vitamin C, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and L-arginine. Effectiveness depends on individual context and testing.

Can acupuncture help with male infertility?

Acupuncture may support sperm quality, hormonal regulation, stress reduction, and certain forms of sexual dysfunction. It is most effective when used as part of an integrative, systems-based care plan.

Does improving male fertility matter if we are planning IVF or ICSI?

Yes. Optimizing sperm quality may improve assisted reproductive outcomes and support healthier embryo development, even when advanced reproductive technologies are used.

How long does it take to see improvements in sperm quality?

Spermatogenesis takes approximately 74 days. Meaningful changes in sperm parameters typically occur over about three months once underlying contributors are addressed.



Resources

  1. PMC – A unique view on male infertility around the globe

  2. Human Reproduction Update (Oxford Academic) – Temporal trends in sperm count: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis

  3. Mayo Clinic – Male infertility: Symptoms and causes

  4. PMC – The efficacy and mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of male infertility: A literature review

  5. PubMed – Acupuncture in the treatment of psychogenic erectile dysfunction: first results of a prospective randomized placebo-controlled study

  6. PubMed – Study on the efficacy of electric acupuncture in the treatment of premature ejaculation based on testosterone level

  7. PubMed – Acupuncture for infertility: is it an effective therapy?

  8. Andrology (Wiley) – Dietary habits and semen parameters: a systematic narrative review

  9. PubMed – Soy food and isoflavone intake in relation to semen quality parameters among men from an infertility clinic

  10. Environmental Science / Media Coverage – Microscopic menace: Scientists discover plastic nanoparticles in men’s testicles