Male infertility is an increasingly important part of the fertility conversation in India. Recent clinical research, surveys of healthcare professionals and reports on the IVF industry highlight the need for better awareness, earlier diagnosis and a more comprehensive evaluation of both partners. But is male infertility in India really rising from 2 lakh to 5 lakh cases annually? The available evidence does not yet confirm those exact national figures. What it does show is that male-factor infertility contributes significantly to fertility problems, and conditions affecting sperm count, movement and quality deserve timely medical attention.
According to a 2026 multicentre Indian study involving 2,414 infertile couples across 17 tertiary centres, male-factor subfertility was identified in 27.3% of couples, while female factors accounted for 36.9%, combined factors for 9.7%, and unexplained infertility for 26.1%. These findings highlight why fertility evaluation should involve both partners rather than placing the responsibility on women alone.
For couples experiencing difficulty conceiving, understanding the causes, diagnostic tests and available treatment options can be the first step towards making informed decisions with a qualified fertility specialist.
Key Takeaways: Male Infertility in India in 2026
- Male infertility may be related to low sperm count, reduced sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, hormonal problems, reproductive tract obstruction or other medical conditions.
- A 2026 multicentre study of 2,414 infertile couples found male-factor subfertility in 27.3% of the study population.
- A 2025 survey of 1,039 Indian gynaecologists highlighted differences in awareness, diagnostic practices and management of male infertility.
- Industry reporting in 2026 estimated that India performs approximately 2 lakh to 2.5 lakh IVF cycles annually. These are IVF cycle estimates, not annual male infertility case counts.
- Semen analysis is generally an important first-line investigation when male-factor infertility is suspected.
- Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include lifestyle changes, medical treatment, surgery, assisted reproduction, IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
- Both partners should generally undergo an appropriate fertility evaluation, with investigations tailored to their medical history and clinical findings.
Is Male Infertility Increasing in India? What Does the Latest Data Say?
Male infertility is receiving greater attention in India as more couples seek fertility assessment and treatment. However, an increase in clinic visits or IVF demand does not automatically prove that the underlying national prevalence has increased by the same amount. Better awareness, improved access to fertility services and changes in diagnostic practices may also contribute to the trend.
Three important findings help explain the current picture.
1. What does the 2026 Indian multicentre study reveal?
The Indian Male Factor Subfertility Evaluation (IM-FaST) study, published in March 2026, examined 2,414 infertile couples attending 17 tertiary centres across India. The researchers assessed clinical, lifestyle, occupational and environmental factors, with semen analysis conducted using WHO 2021 guidance.
The study reported the following distribution:
| Factor identified in the study | Percentage of couples |
|---|---|
| Male-factor subfertility | 27.3% |
| Female-factor subfertility | 36.9% |
| Combined male and female factors | 9.7% |
| Unexplained infertility | 26.1% |
Asthenozoospermia, a condition involving reduced sperm movement, was the most frequently reported semen abnormality in the study, affecting 23.4% of the study population as reported by the researchers.
What does this mean for couples? Male-factor infertility can be an important part of the explanation for difficulty conceiving, but the findings should not be interpreted as a nationwide population prevalence estimate. The participants were couples seeking treatment at tertiary centres, so the results may not represent every couple in India.
2. What did the survey of 1,039 Indian gynaecologists find?
A survey published in the International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research in February 2025 collected responses from 1,039 gynaecologists who participated during the Indian Fertility Society’s FERTIVISION-2023 conference.
Among the findings reported by the survey:
- 43.12% of respondents said that 10–20% of their male patients had fertility issues.
- Premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction were frequently reported sexual-health concerns.
- Only 16.65% of respondents reported routinely performing semen analysis, according to the survey.
- 54.09% said they referred patients to urologists for varicocele management.
- The researchers highlighted differences in diagnostic and management practices, alongside social stigma and cultural barriers.
These figures describe the experiences and practices reported by participating clinicians. They do not establish the percentage of all Indian men who are infertile. Nevertheless, the findings underline the need for appropriate testing, awareness and referral pathways.
3. What do reports about India’s IVF industry tell us?
A July 2026 report by Business Standard estimated that India performs approximately 2 lakh to 2.5 lakh IVF cycles annually, with the number potentially reaching around 4 lakh cycles by 2030. The report also cited fertility-industry estimates suggesting that male factors contribute to approximately 40–50% of infertility cases, either alone or alongside female factors.
These figures need careful interpretation. The annual number of IVF cycles is not the same as the number of men with infertility. A couple may undergo more than one treatment cycle, and not every person with male-factor infertility requires IVF.
The reported 40–50% estimate also differs from the 27.3% male-factor figure in the 2026 multicentre study because the sources use different populations and methods. Some estimates include male factors occurring alongside female factors.
The evidence-based conclusion: Male infertility is a significant clinical concern in India, but the exact claim that annual cases have increased from 2 lakh to 5 lakh requires a reliable source that specifically measures male infertility cases over time.
What Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility refers to a problem with the male reproductive system that reduces the likelihood of achieving a pregnancy. It may involve the production of sperm, sperm quality, sperm transport or sexual and reproductive function.
The World Health Organization defines infertility as a disease of the male or female reproductive system characterised by failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular unprotected sexual intercourse.
Male infertility does not necessarily mean that a man produces no sperm or can never father a child. Some men have a low sperm count, reduced sperm movement or other abnormalities, while others may have an obstruction, a hormonal condition or a problem with ejaculation.
Infertility may involve the male partner, the female partner, both partners or factors that remain unexplained after investigation. This is why a balanced assessment is essential.
What Are the Main Causes of Male Infertility in India?
Male infertility can have several causes, and more than one factor may be present in the same person. The following are important possibilities that a fertility specialist may evaluate.
1. Low sperm count
A low sperm concentration, medically called oligozoospermia, can reduce the probability of fertilisation. Causes may include hormonal disorders, genetic conditions, varicocele, certain infections, testicular damage or unexplained problems with sperm production.
A low count does not automatically mean that natural conception is impossible. The clinical significance depends on the complete semen analysis, the couple’s circumstances and the underlying cause.
2. Poor sperm motility
Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm to move effectively. Reduced motility, called asthenozoospermia, may make it more difficult for sperm to reach and fertilise an egg.
Motility can be affected by several factors, including certain medical conditions, oxidative stress and abnormalities of sperm production or function. A semen analysis helps assess the pattern.
3. Abnormal sperm morphology
Morphology describes the size and shape of sperm. A semen analysis may report a higher proportion of sperm with abnormal morphology.
Morphology should not be interpreted in isolation. A fertility specialist considers it alongside sperm concentration, motility, the couple’s reproductive history and other clinical findings.
4. Varicocele
A varicocele is an enlargement of veins in the scrotum. In some men, it may be associated with impaired sperm production or quality.
Not every varicocele requires treatment. A specialist may consider the examination findings, semen results, symptoms and fertility goals before discussing observation or a procedure.
5. Hormonal disorders
Hormones such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH) and testosterone play important roles in male reproductive function.
Problems involving the pituitary gland, hypothalamus or testes can affect sperm production. Some hormonal causes are treatable, but treatment must be selected after appropriate assessment.
Men should not start testosterone injections or anabolic steroids to improve fertility without medical advice. External testosterone can suppress sperm production and may cause severe reductions in sperm count.
6. Obesity and metabolic health
Obesity and certain metabolic conditions may be associated with hormonal changes and impaired reproductive health. Diabetes can also affect sexual function and, in some cases, ejaculation.
Maintaining a healthy weight, managing chronic conditions and following appropriate medical advice can support overall health. However, lifestyle changes alone may not correct every cause of infertility.
7. Smoking, alcohol and recreational drugs
Smoking is associated with poorer reproductive health, and heavy alcohol use or recreational drugs may also affect fertility. The effect varies according to the exposure and the individual.
Men trying to conceive should discuss tobacco, alcohol, cannabis, anabolic steroids and other substances with their healthcare professional. Avoiding tobacco and non-prescribed performance-enhancing drugs is a sensible step towards better health.
8. Heat and occupational exposures
The 2026 IM-FaST study identified heat exposure and certain occupational and socioeconomic factors as predictors associated with abnormal semen parameters in its study population.
Some occupational environments involve prolonged heat, chemical exposure or other hazards. The study does not mean that every man working in a hot environment will develop infertility. A clinician can help assess relevant exposures and suggest practical precautions.
9. Infections and reproductive tract obstruction
Certain infections and inflammation can affect reproductive health. Scarring or obstruction in the reproductive tract may prevent sperm from entering the ejaculate.
A history of genital infection, surgery, trauma or other relevant conditions can help guide investigation. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve medication, a procedure or assisted reproductive techniques.
10. Genetic and congenital conditions
Some men have genetic or congenital conditions that affect testicular development, sperm production or the reproductive tract. In severe cases, a specialist may recommend genetic investigations.
The appropriate tests depend on clinical findings, such as very low sperm concentration or azoospermia, where no sperm are found in the ejaculate.
11. Erectile or ejaculatory problems
Erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory disorders can interfere with the ability to conceive naturally. These conditions are not identical to problems with sperm production, but they may still require evaluation as part of fertility care.
Because sexual-health concerns can be sensitive, confidential medical consultation can help men obtain appropriate support without unnecessary embarrassment.
12. Unexplained male-factor infertility
Sometimes semen analysis and other investigations do not identify a clear cause. In other cases, standard tests may not fully explain why conception has not occurred.
A diagnosis of unexplained infertility does not mean that the problem is imaginary. The next steps depend on the couple’s age, reproductive history, duration of trying to conceive and previous test results.
Are Modern Lifestyle Changes Affecting Male Fertility?
Lifestyle is an important area of reproductive-health research, but it is not the only explanation for male infertility. Age, genetic factors, medical conditions, occupational exposures and reproductive tract disorders can all contribute.
Factors worth discussing with a healthcare professional include:
- Smoking: May be associated with poorer sperm quality.
- Excessive alcohol use: Can affect general and reproductive health.
- Obesity and metabolic disease: May be associated with hormonal and reproductive changes.
- Poor sleep and chronic stress: Can affect general wellbeing and may influence sexual health and health-related behaviours.
- Heat exposure: May be relevant in some occupational or environmental circumstances.
- Unsupervised medicines or supplements: Some drugs can impair reproductive function, and supplements are not guaranteed to improve fertility.
- Delayed parenthood: Male age is relevant to reproductive health, although age-related effects differ from those seen in female fertility.
These factors should not be used to blame men or couples for infertility. They are potential contributors that may be assessed alongside medical and reproductive history.
What Are the Warning Signs of Male Infertility?
Male infertility often has no obvious symptoms. Some men feel completely healthy and discover a fertility problem only after trying to conceive.
Medical evaluation may be appropriate when:
- A couple has been trying to conceive for 12 months without pregnancy.
- The female partner is aged 35 or older and the couple has been trying for six months without pregnancy.
- The female partner is over 40, or either partner has a known fertility risk factor, making earlier evaluation appropriate.
- A man has a history of undescended testes, testicular injury, genital surgery or certain infections.
- There is a known history of chemotherapy, radiotherapy or medicines that may affect sperm production.
- There is a testicular lump, swelling, persistent pain or a noticeable change in testicular size.
- Erectile dysfunction, ejaculation difficulties or other sexual-health symptoms are affecting attempts to conceive.
Pain, swelling or a testicular lump should be assessed for its own medical significance rather than assumed to be caused by infertility.
Which Tests Diagnose Male Infertility?
The first step is usually a medical and reproductive history, followed by a focused examination and appropriate investigations. The tests selected depend on the individual.
| Test or assessment | What it helps evaluate |
|---|---|
| Semen analysis | Sperm concentration, total count, motility, morphology and other semen characteristics |
| Medical and reproductive history | Previous illnesses, surgery, medicines, sexual health and duration of trying to conceive |
| Physical examination | Testicular size, possible varicocele and other relevant findings |
| Hormone testing | Selected hormone levels, such as FSH and testosterone, when indicated |
| Genetic testing | Certain genetic causes in men with specific severe sperm abnormalities or absent sperm |
| Scrotal or other imaging | Used when the examination and clinical situation indicate a need |
| Additional sperm testing | Tests such as sperm DNA fragmentation may be considered in selected cases rather than routinely for everyone |
Why is semen analysis important?
Semen analysis is commonly a first-line investigation for suspected male-factor infertility. Results can vary between samples, so a clinician may recommend repeat testing depending on the initial result and the clinical situation.
A single semen analysis cannot by itself determine every aspect of a man’s fertility or guarantee whether a couple will conceive. Results should be interpreted in the context of the couple’s history and other findings.
Both partners should generally be evaluated in parallel when infertility is suspected. This can prevent unnecessary delays and help the clinician select an appropriate treatment plan.
What Are the Treatment Options for Male Infertility in 2026?
There is no single treatment that works for every cause of male infertility. The right approach depends on the diagnosis, the severity of the problem, the female partner’s fertility factors, the couple’s preferences and the time available for treatment.
1. Lifestyle and medical management
When relevant, treatment may include stopping tobacco use, avoiding anabolic steroids, improving metabolic health, managing chronic illnesses and reviewing medicines that could affect fertility.
Specific medical conditions may need targeted treatment. Hormonal treatment can help in certain diagnosed disorders, but it is not appropriate for every man with a low sperm count.
Antioxidants and fertility supplements should not be treated as a guaranteed solution. Evidence varies by product and clinical situation, so men should discuss their use with a qualified healthcare professional.
2. Treatment for varicocele or obstruction
In selected cases, a specialist may recommend varicocele repair or treatment of a reproductive tract obstruction. Whether a procedure is likely to help depends on the clinical findings and the couple’s fertility goals.
Surgery is not necessary for every varicocele, and not every obstruction can be corrected in the same way.
3. Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
IUI involves placing prepared sperm into the uterus around the time of ovulation. It may be considered in selected cases where sperm parameters and other fertility factors make the procedure appropriate.
IUI is not suitable for every degree of male-factor infertility. The decision depends on semen findings and the wider clinical assessment.
4. In vitro fertilisation (IVF)
IVF involves fertilising eggs with sperm in a laboratory and transferring an embryo to the uterus. It may be recommended for a range of fertility conditions involving either partner or both.
IVF is not automatically necessary whenever a semen analysis is abnormal. Some couples may be suitable for other approaches, while others may benefit from IVF based on the overall diagnosis.
5. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
ICSI is a laboratory procedure in which a single sperm is injected into an egg during an IVF cycle. It may be considered in selected cases of significant male-factor infertility, including some cases of very low sperm count or previous fertilisation difficulties.
ICSI can help overcome certain fertilisation problems, but it does not guarantee pregnancy or a live birth. The fertility specialist and embryology team assess whether it is appropriate.
6. Surgical sperm retrieval
When sperm are absent from the ejaculate, surgical sperm retrieval may be considered in selected cases. The procedure depends on the cause of azoospermia and whether sperm production is present within the testes.
A specialist may recommend further hormonal, genetic or other investigations before discussing this option. Surgical sperm retrieval is not appropriate for every patient.
7. Treatment when no clear cause is found
If investigations do not identify a clear cause, the fertility specialist considers the complete clinical picture. Depending on the couple’s circumstances, options may include continued attempts at natural conception, IUI, IVF or other approaches.
Treatment decisions should be individualised rather than based on one test result or a headline statistic.
When Should a Couple Consult a Fertility Specialist?
The World Health Organization defines infertility around failure to achieve pregnancy after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse. In practice, couples should seek assessment earlier when age or a known medical condition makes waiting inappropriate.
A consultation can help clarify whether the difficulty is related to sperm production, ovulation, the reproductive tract, age-related factors, combined causes or an unexplained problem.
For men, early evaluation may be especially useful when there is a history of undescended testes, testicular surgery, chemotherapy, reproductive tract infection or known sexual-health difficulties.
A fertility specialist can help coordinate investigations for both partners and explain the benefits, limitations, likely timelines and costs of available treatment options.
Male Infertility Treatment in Noida: Consult Dr. Sweta Gupta
Dr. Sweta Gupta is a fertility and reproductive medicine specialist associated with SG Clinic in Noida. Couples experiencing difficulty conceiving can seek a consultation to discuss their reproductive history, appropriate investigations and available fertility treatment options.
A fertility consultation should consider both partners. Where male-factor infertility is suspected, semen analysis and further evaluation may be coordinated with the appropriate laboratory, urologist or andrologist, depending on the clinical findings.
Dr. Sweta Gupta’s qualifications include:
- MD in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Delhi
- MRCOG, London
- DFSRH, UK
- FRCOG, London
- MSc in Reproduction and Development, Bristol, UK
- Fellowship in Reproductive Medicine and ART, London
Clinic: SG Clinic, 3D-5L, Wave City Center, Sector 32, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301
Contact: 8130140007 / 9009004709
Couples should discuss their individual diagnosis and treatment options during a consultation. No single fertility treatment guarantees pregnancy, and the appropriate approach depends on the medical findings for both partners.
Frequently Asked Questions About Male Infertility in India
1. Is male infertility increasing in India in 2026?
Male infertility is receiving increased clinical and public attention, and reports describe growing demand for fertility assessments and assisted reproduction. However, the exact national increase in male infertility cases is not established by the available evidence cited here. Increased diagnosis and treatment demand should not be confused with a measured increase in national prevalence.
2. Is it true that male infertility cases in India have increased from 2 lakh to 5 lakh annually?
The exact figure of 2 lakh to 5 lakh annual male infertility cases requires a reliable source that specifically counts male infertility cases over time. Reports estimating 2 lakh to 2.5 lakh IVF cycles annually measure treatment cycles, not the total number of men with infertility.
3. What percentage of infertility cases are due to male factors in India?
The percentage varies according to the study population and definitions used. A 2026 multicentre study of 2,414 infertile couples found male-factor subfertility in 27.3% of couples, with combined factors in another 9.7%. Industry reports sometimes cite higher estimates that include male factors occurring alongside female factors. These numbers should not be treated as directly interchangeable.
4. What is the most common cause of male infertility?
There is no single cause that applies to every man. Potential causes include impaired sperm production, reduced sperm motility, varicocele, hormonal disorders, genetic conditions, reproductive tract obstruction and unexplained factors. Semen analysis and clinical evaluation help identify the relevant possibilities.
5. Can male infertility be treated naturally?
Some lifestyle changes may support reproductive health, such as stopping smoking, avoiding anabolic steroids, managing chronic conditions and maintaining a healthy weight. However, lifestyle changes cannot correct every cause of infertility. Medical assessment is important to identify conditions that need specific treatment.
6. Can a man with a low sperm count become a father?
Yes, some men with a low sperm count can father a child, depending on the severity and underlying cause. Treatment may involve addressing a medical condition, selected fertility procedures, IVF or ICSI. The appropriate option depends on the results for both partners.
7. Is semen analysis enough to diagnose male infertility?
Semen analysis is an important first-line test, but it does not provide a complete explanation in every case. Depending on the results and medical history, a specialist may recommend a physical examination, hormone tests, genetic investigations or other targeted assessments.
8. When should men get tested for fertility problems?
Men can be evaluated as part of a couple’s fertility assessment when pregnancy has not occurred after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse, or earlier when the female partner’s age or either partner’s medical history warrants it. A known risk factor may justify evaluation before waiting for the usual time period.
9. Does every man with male-factor infertility need IVF or ICSI?
No. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the problem, as well as the female partner’s fertility factors. Some couples may be suitable for medical management, surgery or IUI, while others may benefit from IVF or ICSI.
10. Who should couples consult for male infertility treatment in Noida?
Couples can consult a qualified fertility specialist to coordinate evaluation of both partners and discuss appropriate treatment. At SG Clinic in Noida, Dr. Sweta Gupta can discuss fertility concerns and the next steps based on the couple’s clinical history and findings.
Conclusion: Why Male Fertility Awareness Matters in India
Male infertility deserves the same attention as female infertility. Current Indian research and clinician surveys highlight the importance of appropriate testing, better awareness and evaluation of both partners. Lifestyle and occupational factors may be relevant, but male infertility can also result from hormonal, genetic, anatomical and other medical conditions.
The claim that India has moved from 2 lakh to 5 lakh male infertility cases annually should not be presented as confirmed without a reliable source measuring those specific cases. A more accurate understanding comes from examining clinical research, recognising the limits of each survey and helping couples access appropriate medical assessment.
For couples trying to conceive, timely evaluation can help identify possible causes and clarify the options available. Consulting a qualified fertility specialist can support an informed, individualised plan rather than relying on assumptions or unverified statistics.