You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with male infertility. By talking openly and often with your doctor, you can take an active role in your care.

Tips for Getting Information

Here are some tips that will make it easier to talk to your doctor:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of questions to ask. They may also be able to give more details.
  • Write down your questions so do you do not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get and make sure you understand what you are hearing.
  • Ask for help if you need it. Do not be afraid to ask questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Infertility in Men

  • Can my infertility be cured?
  • How can you find out if I'm infertile?

About Your Risk of Getting Male Infertility

  • Does my work raise my risk of infertility?
  • Is my tobacco or alcohol use affecting my fertility?
  • Does my past sexual history play a role in my fertility today?
  • Is my physical activity affecting my fertility?
  • Are the prescription or over the counter medicines I take affecting my fertility?

About Treatment

  • Can the causes of my infertility be treated with medicine?
  • Will I need surgery if I’m infertile?
  • What is the success rate of treatments?

About Lifestyle Changes

  • Will I need to quit smoking and drinking alcohol?
  • Do I need vitamin or mineral supplements?

About Outlook

  • What are the chances of pregnancy after treatment?
  • Will I need to have treatment again if we want more children?
REFERENCES:

Getting the most out of your doctor appointment. Family Doctor—American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: https://familydoctor.org/tips-for-talking-to-your-doctor. Accessed November 16, 2021.

Infertility in men. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/infertility-in-men-23. Accessed November 11, 2021.

Male infertility/andrology. American Society for Reproductive Medicine website. Available at: https://www.reproductivefacts.org/topics/topics-index/male-infertility. Accessed November 11, 2021.

Overview of infertility. Merck Manual Professional Version website. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gynecology-and-obstetrics/infertility/overview-of-infertility. Accessed November 11, 2021.

Last reviewed November 2021 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Mary-Beth Seymour, RN