04 June 2026: Why everything you thought you knew about sperm is wrong | Herald Sun
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Key takeaways
- Male fertility matters and contributes to around half of all infertility cases.
- Fertility is a shared journey, with both partners playing an important role in conception.
- Lifestyle choices can influence sperm health, including vaping, alcohol consumption, sleep and weight.
- The male biological clock exists, with sperm quality changing over time.
- Male fertility testing is important and should not be overlooked when investigating infertility.
- Awareness of male reproductive health is growing, with more men seeking fertility information and support.
- Understanding fertility early can help individuals and couples make informed decisions about family planning.
Male fertility is often overlooked in conversations about reproductive health, despite playing an important role in conception. While fertility discussions have traditionally focused on women, growing awareness of male reproductive health is helping to reshape the way fertility is understood and approached.
Featuring insights from Genea Medical Director Sydney CBD Dr Anthony Marren, this article explores some of the common misconceptions surrounding sperm health, the impact of lifestyle factors on fertility and why male fertility should be considered an important part of family planning.
Australia is currently experiencing record-low fertility rates, with many people choosing to start their families later in life due to a range of social and economic factors. As these timelines shift, understanding fertility health becomes increasingly important for both men and women.
Research highlighted in the article found that men contribute to around half of all infertility cases in Australia. Despite this, fertility investigations often focus primarily on women, meaning male fertility factors may not always be assessed as early as they could be.
Understanding the male fertility factor
According to Dr Anthony Marren, fertility should be viewed as a shared issue rather than one that primarily affects women. He explains that fertility investigations frequently begin with the female partner, which can delay the evaluation of male fertility factors.
The article also explores the stigma that can sometimes surround male fertility testing. Dr Marren notes that some men may be reluctant to investigate their fertility due to perceptions around masculinity and reproductive health. As a result, women may undergo extensive testing and lifestyle changes before sperm health is assessed.
By recognising fertility as a shared journey, couples can be better supported in understanding all aspects of their reproductive health.
How lifestyle factors can influence sperm health
The article highlights several lifestyle factors that may influence sperm quality.
Dr Marren identifies vaping as an emerging concern, explaining that e-cigarette aerosols can contain substances that may contribute to sperm DNA damage. As vaping continues to become more common, awareness of its potential impact on fertility is growing.
Alcohol consumption is another factor discussed in the article. Dr Marren explains that there is currently no identified safe alcohol threshold for sperm health, reinforcing the importance of considering lifestyle choices when trying to conceive.
The article also points to other factors that may affect sperm quality, including excess weight, poor sleep habits and exposure to heat. Activities such as spending extended periods in hot spas or saunas, prolonged sitting and wearing tight-fitting underwear are highlighted as examples of factors that may influence testicular temperature and sperm health.
The male biological clock
A key message explored in the article is that fertility changes are not limited to women.
While discussions about reproductive ageing often focus on female fertility, Dr Marren explains that sperm quality can also decline over time. According to the article, this gradual decline may begin in a man's mid-30s and become more pronounced after the age of 40.
The article outlines how advancing paternal age may be associated with longer times to conception, lower natural conception rates and an increased risk of miscarriage. It also discusses the potential impact of male age on fertility treatment outcomes and genetic risks.
These findings challenge the common assumption that male fertility remains unchanged throughout life and highlight the importance of fertility awareness for both partners.
A changing conversation around male fertility
Despite the misconceptions that continue to exist, the article points to encouraging signs that attitudes towards male fertility are evolving.
Genea Fertility has seen an increase in men seeking fertility testing and support, reflecting growing awareness of the role sperm health plays in conception. The article also notes a shift towards viewing fertility as a couple's issue rather than solely a women's health issue.
Another trend highlighted is the growing interest in vasectomy reversals. For men who have entered new relationships or reconsidered their family-building goals, reversal procedures are becoming an option worth exploring.
Dr Marren notes that vasectomy reversal procedures can achieve high success rates, with many couples going on to achieve pregnancy following treatment.
Looking ahead
Through Dr Anthony Marren's insights, this article highlights the importance of including men in fertility conversations and recognising the role that sperm health plays in reproductive outcomes.
From lifestyle choices and age-related changes to fertility testing and specialist support, male fertility is an important part of the broader fertility picture. As awareness continues to grow, more individuals and couples may feel empowered to take a proactive approach to understanding their fertility health and exploring their options.
About the authors
Dr Anthony Marren
Medical Director Sydney CBD and CREI Fertility Specialist B. Med (Hons.), M. Med (R. H. H. G.), FRANZCOG, CREI
Sydney CREI Specialist Dr Anthony Marren is the Medical Director at Genea Sydney CBD. Leading expert in IVF, fertility & recurrent pregnancy loss treatment.
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