Every year, during the third week of June, we celebrate International Men’s Health Week: a time to care for men’s physical, mental and emotional well-being. On this date—created to raise awareness of conditions that affect men—we also take the opportunity to talk about a topic surrounded by myths and silence: male reproductive health. At Ingenes we know fertility isn’t just a women’s issue. In 50% of infertility cases in couples, a male factor is involved, either alone or along with other factors. That’s why we believe this week is ideal for breaking taboos, offering clear information and opening doors to real solutions. What is International Men’s Health Week and why does it matter for fertility? This week puts the focus on problems that often go unmentioned, including men’s reproductive health. By discussing sperm quality, hormonal balance and lifestyle habits, we empower men and couples to seek evaluations and treatments in time. How do male factors influence a couple’s fertility? Male fertility depends on sperm concentration (million/mL), motility (%), morphology (% normal forms) and semen volume (mL). A low count (<15 million/mL), reduced motility (<40%) or abnormal morphology (<4%) decrease the chances of conception. In addition, hormonal imbalances—such as low testosterone (<300 ng/dL)—and structural issues like varicocele also have an impact. What tests diagnose male fertility problems? The first step is a semen analysis that measures: Sperm concentration (million/mL) Motility (% of motile sperm) Morphology (% of sperm with normal form) Semen volume (mL) If the results are out of range, additional studies are performed: hormonal panel (FSH, LH, testosterone), genetic tests and ultrasound to detect underlying causes. What lifestyle changes improve sperm quality? Small adjustments make a difference: Quit smoking and moderate alcohol consumption Maintain a healthy weight (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m²) Follow a balanced diet rich in antioxidants (vitamin C, E, zinc) Manage stress with exercise or relaxation practices Avoid excessive heat (saunas, hot tubs) and exposure to toxins Does a man’s age affect his fertility? Although men produce sperm throughout their lives, quality declines with age. After 40, motility and morphology may worsen, and the risk of DNA fragmentation and genetic mutations increases. Advanced paternal age is associated with higher risks of miscarriage and certain disorders in offspring. How to preserve male fertility for the future? Sperm cryopreservation is the best option. By freezing semen samples at –196 °C in liquid nitrogen, fertility is protected before medical treatments (chemotherapy, radiation) or age-related decline. At Ingenes we offer secure storage and easy access when you need it. What treatments are available for male infertility? Most cases are treatable. Options include: Lifestyle interventions: diet, exercise and stress management Medical therapy: antibiotics for infections, hormonal treatments Surgery: varicocelectomy, vasectomy reversal, blockage removal Assisted reproduction: IUI, IVF, ICSI or PICSI to select the best sperm For a comprehensive approach, visit our article World Sexual Health Day: A Holistic View of Wellness and Fertility and learn more about paternal health in Father’s Month: Male Reproductive Health and Everyone’s Right to Build a Family. Why does mental health matter in male fertility? Emotional well-being influences hormonal balance and semen parameters. Anxiety and depression can lower testosterone (<300 ng/dL) and affect libido and sexual function. At Ingenes we offer psychological support to accompany men and couples during the fertility process. Talking openly and having support networks encourage testing and proactive measures. Celebrating men’s health this week is not a sign of weakness, but a brave step toward building the family you dream of. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Which lifestyle habits impact male fertility the most? Quitting smoking and moderating alcohol are key changes. Tobacco damages sperm DNA and reduces motility and count. Excessive alcohol disrupts hormonal balance, lowers testosterone and affects spermatogenesis. Regular exercise, a diet rich in antioxidants (vitamin C, E, zinc) and stress-reduction techniques (meditation, yoga), plus maintaining a healthy BMI (18.5–24.9 kg/m²), also support fertility. 2. How do hormonal imbalances affect male fertility? Hormones like FSH, LH and testosterone regulate sperm production in the testes. Low testosterone (<300 ng/dL) leads to reduced libido, erectile dysfunction and poor sperm formation. High FSH or LH levels may indicate testicular failure or pituitary issues. Blood tests diagnose these imbalances and they are treated with testosterone replacement, gonadotropins or specific medications under supervision. 3. When should a couple consider a semen analysis? If they have tried to conceive for more than 12 months without success—or 6 months if the woman is over 35—it is recommended. Early evaluation speeds up diagnosis and opens treatment options. Even before trying, men with risk factors (infections, varicocele, toxin exposure, chronic diseases) can get tested to improve or preserve their fertility. 4. Are there risks to sperm cryopreservation? Sperm freezing is a safe, routine procedure. Collection may cause slight discomfort, but the freezing process preserves long-term viability. The main considerations are storage costs and proper sample identification. At specialized banks like Ingenes we follow international protocols to ensure sperm integrity upon thawing. References American Urological Association. (2018). Evaluation and Management of Infertility in Men. https://www.auanet.org/guidelines World Health Organization. (2021). WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen (6th ed.). Geneva: WHO Press. O’Flynn O’Brien, K. L., Vargha, A., & Agarwal, A. (2010). The genetic causes of male factor infertility: a review. Human Reproduction Update, 16(4), 331–344. https://doi.org/10.1093/humupd/dmp051 National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2022). Male Infertility. In StatPearls. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279026/ Remember: every body is unique. If you have concerns about your fertility, seek guidance from an assisted reproduction specialist. We are here to accompany you on your path to fatherhood.

In some cases, the ovaries stop functioning before age 40. This condition, called premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) or early menopause, can make pregnancy difficult. Although we cannot fully restore ovarian function, in vitro fertilization with egg donation offers up to an 85% success rate for those who wish to become parents. All fertility plans for POI include hormone therapy (estrogen and progesterone) to relieve menopausal symptoms and protect bone and cardiovascular health. What is premature ovarian insufficiency and how does it affect fertility? Women are born with around one million eggs and do not produce more. While most deplete their reserve between ages 45 and 50, in POI ovarian function stops before age 40 in 1 out of every 100 women. This not only prevents ovulation but also lowers estrogen levels, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and heart problems. Causes and types of POI Follicle reserve depletion (egg depletion). Ovulatory dysfunction: eggs do not respond to hormones (50% of cases). The most common causes are genetic factors (Turner syndrome), autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and environmental toxins. Warning symptoms Irregular or scanty periods Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) Hot flashes and night sweats Insomnia, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and pain during intercourse Fatigue, irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating Infertility If you experience these signs before age 40, consult a reproductive endocrinologist instead of self-medicating. Diagnosis of POI Under age 40 with menopausal symptoms, your doctor will order blood tests (day 3–5 of the cycle or at any time if you have no period) to measure FSH and estradiol. High FSH and low estradiol levels confirm POI. Thyroid function, autoimmune antibodies, karyotype, and pelvic ultrasound to count antral follicles may also be evaluated. Treatment options to achieve pregnancy IVF with egg donation achieves up to an 85% live birth rate per cycle. If you still have some reserve, ovulation induction combined with IVF can be attempted, although response is usually low. Hormone replacement therapy is always included to relieve symptoms and protect your bones until natural menopausal age. More information and support at Ingenes – Premature Ovarian Failure. Lifestyle changes A diet rich in calcium (1,000 mg/day) and vitamin D (600–800 IU/day), weight-bearing exercise (30 min, 3×/week), quitting smoking, and moderating alcohol intake help maintain bone and heart health. Psychological support is key; at Ingenes we offer counseling to manage the emotional impact. Beyond fertility POI, due to low estrogen, can cause osteopenia, osteoporosis, and increase cardiovascular risk. Bone density scan (DEXA) and heart checkups are recommended. HRT mitigates these risks and is tailored to your medical profile. Anovulation and POI Lack of ovulation in POI occurs when follicles do not respond. There are personalized induction protocols, but success depends on each case. More at Anovulation and Fertility. Pregnancy success and follow-up With egg donation, up to an 85% live birth rate is achieved. Long-term follow-up includes monitoring bone density, cardiovascular health, and controlling menopausal symptoms until natural menopause. The key is consistent checkups and adherence to HRT to optimize your health. Frequently asked questions 1. Can they conceive naturally? In 5–10% of cases there are spontaneous pregnancies due to intermittent ovarian function, but they cannot be predicted. Consult a specialist to consider egg donation or other assisted methods. Even if it occurs, there is a higher risk of miscarriage and chromosomal abnormalities. 2. Is HRT safe? The combination of estrogen and progesterone is safe if there are no contraindications (hormone-dependent cancers or history of thrombosis). It relieves hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and protects bones. Dose and duration are adapted to each person. 3. When to seek fertility treatment? Once POI is confirmed and there is a desire to conceive, visit a fertility clinic. Delaying consultation reduces options and success. Begin emotional support, financial counseling, and protocol planning early. 4. How to cope with the emotional impact? The diagnosis can cause grief, anxiety, and a sense of loss. Psychological therapy, support groups, and partner involvement strengthen resilience. At Ingenes our emotional support unit accompanies you at every stage. Sources MedlinePlus. (2023). Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. https://medlineplus.gov/ Nelson, L. M. (2021). Primary Ovarian Insufficiency. NEJM, 385(8), 744–754. doi:10.1056/NEJMra2020314 Practice Committee ASRM. (2020). Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: A Guideline. Fertility and Sterility, 114(4), 1095–1114. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.06.036 Rocha, G., & Pérez, A. (2022). Management of Premature Ovarian Insufficiency. J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 107(5), 1234–1245. doi:10.1210/clinem/dgab123 We understand how emotional this journey can be. You are not alone: see a reproductive specialist for the medical and emotional support you deserve.