Is It Time to Check His Fertility? What You Both Should Know

When you’re trying to conceive, the spotlight often falls on tracking ovulation, boosting egg quality, or syncing with the “right” time of the month. But there’s another important part of the story that’s sometimes overlooked – his fertility.

Sperm health matters just as much as egg health when it comes to getting pregnant. And checking in on it isn’t about blame, it’s about clarity. A semen analysis is one of the simplest ways to better understand your fertility picture. Whether you’re just getting started or it’s been a few months without results, taking a look at sperm health can be a quiet turning point.

This article walks you through what male fertility involves, when testing might make sense, and why asking the question isn’t a sign of failure, it’s a caring step forward for both of you.

How Often Is Male Fertility a Factor?

Fertility is a team effort and according to research, male factors are involved in about 40 to 50 percent of cases where couples are having trouble conceiving. That doesn’t mean there’s always something “wrong.” But it does mean it’s helpful to check in sooner rather than later.

A semen analysis looks at:

• Sperm count (how many sperm are present)
• Motility (how well they move)
• Morphology (their shape)
• And sometimes, DNA integrity (how healthy the genetic material is)

The Cleveland Clinic explains that even small shifts in these parameters can affect the chance of conception—and that understanding these details can help guide supportive next steps.

Unfortunately, male fertility can be overlooked at first, especially if early conversations focus more on tracking cycles or checking hormone levels in women. But waiting too long to test both partners can lead to frustration or missed opportunities to adjust course.

That’s why sperm health deserves to be part of the conversation early on, especially since lower sperm count is one of the most common factors that can quietly affect male fertility. If you’re curious about what influences sperm levels or what steps might help, our article on what causes low sperm count (and what you can do about it) offers a deeper look.

When Should Men Get Tested?

There’s a common belief that couples should try for a full year before anyone thinks about fertility testing—but that timeline doesn’t fit everyone. In many cases, it makes sense to check on sperm health sooner, especially if you’re feeling unsure or just want to better understand your shared fertility picture.

You might consider testing if:

• It’s been six months or more of trying with no pregnancy
• You’re 35 or older and want to be proactive
• There’s a history of hormonal imbalances, testicular injury, or varicocele
• You’ve had illness or high fevers in the last few months
• There’s regular exposure to heat, certain medications, or substances like tobacco or THC

Sperm are sensitive to many everyday factors, like medication, lifestyle, or even recent illness, all of which can influence test results. Our article on medications that may affect sperm health walks through common prescriptions and habits that could make a difference.

Even if you’re not noticing clear signs of a problem, a semen analysis is one of the easiest and most informative steps you can take. It can bring answers, or reassurance, and help guide your next move. And if you do find results outside the typical range, many factors can improve with time, gentle changes, or support.

What Does the Testing Process Look Like?

A semen analysis might sound intimidating, but the process is usually simple and more private than many people expect. Whether it’s done at a fertility clinic or with an at-home collection kit, it’s often one of the first steps a provider recommends when you’re trying to understand fertility as a couple.

At most clinics, a sample is collected through masturbation in a private room and sent to a lab for analysis. If that option feels uncomfortable, some clinics accept samples collected at home using approved methods. Tools like the Male Factor Pak are designed for this, allowing for at-home collection during intercourse in a lab-safe, transportable condom.

The lab will then assess several key details:

• Sperm count (how many sperm are present)
• Motility (how well they swim)
• Morphology (shape and structure)
• And sometimes, volume, pH, and liquefaction time

The results can often be ready within a few days. And while seeing numbers on a chart might feel clinical, they offer a helpful snapshot that can guide next steps with care and clarity.

If you’re unsure about what those numbers mean, our post on improving sperm health naturally can help you understand which factors might be gently supported through daily habits or lifestyle changes.

What If the Results Show a Problem?

If the results come back and something looks “off,” take a deep breath. Low sperm count, reduced motility, or unusual morphology doesn’t mean the journey is over. It just means your body might need a little extra support.

Here’s the reassuring truth: sperm quality can shift over time. Since it takes about 2 to 3 months to develop new sperm, even small changes today can show up as improvements in the next analysis.

Some of the most common influences on sperm health include:

• Heat exposure (like hot tubs or laptops)
• Smoking, alcohol, or recreational drug use
• Certain medications or long-term stress
• Hormonal imbalances or infections

The good news? Many of these can be adjusted or supported naturally. If you’re just starting to explore gentle next steps, our guide on how to improve sperm health naturally offers simple ideas that may help, without pressure or overwhelm.

In some cases, your provider might suggest repeat testing, further evaluation, or referrals to a urologist or fertility specialist. But remember: testing isn’t a verdict, it’s just information. And understanding what’s happening behind the scenes can help you both feel more confident in your path forward.

Testing Isn’t a Failure – It’s a Step Toward Clarity

It’s easy to feel like testing means something has already gone wrong. But really, it’s just a way to better understand what’s going on and that’s a strength, not a setback.

Choosing to check in on male fertility doesn’t mean you’ve failed. It means you care enough to take a step forward with honesty and hope. It means you’re willing to look at the full picture, not just part of it, and support each other as partners.

For many couples, the moment of getting answers brings relief. Even if the results aren’t perfect, it feels better to know than to wonder. And if the results look good? That’s one more piece of reassurance you can carry with you.

Whether you’re early in your journey or already feeling the emotional weight of trying, clarity can be empowering. You’re not behind. You’re not broken. You’re gathering the information you need to keep moving forward, together.

What You Can Do Next

If you’re feeling unsure about whether testing is “needed,” it’s okay to follow your gut. Getting a semen analysis isn’t about rushing into treatment. It’s about gathering information with care and compassion.

You can:

• Talk with your provider about testing options (clinic or at-home)
• Learn more about the Male Factor Pak for comfortable at-home sample collection
• Begin exploring gentle ways to support sperm health through rest, food, and lifestyle changes

Whatever next step you take, know this: being curious, informed, and proactive is a sign of love, not failure. You’re allowed to ask questions, to want clarity, and to move at your own pace.

FAQs About Male Fertility and Testing