Health
Experts warn male infertility is underreported amid steep global sperm count declines
Male factor infertility remains widely underreported and testing lags despite falling sperm counts worldwide, Deutsche Welle reports.
The short version
- Global sperm counts dropped by more than 51% since 1973 as reproductive biologists warn that male infertility is widely understated.[Deutsche Welle]
- Men undergo fertility testing less frequently than women, often lacking biological indicators until attempting to conceive.[Deutsche Welle]
- Experts report that early screening can frequently restore normal sperm levels within six to twelve months.[Deutsche Welle]
Key facts
- A 2026 review in Antioxidants found global sperm counts dropped by over 51% since 1973, with the rate of decline accelerating.[Deutsche Welle]
- A 2023 study of over 17,000 men found sperm morphology deteriorated by approximately 50% between 2010 and 2019, with Nigerian sperm motility falling by 87%.[Deutsche Welle]
- Specialists note that early testing can frequently return a man's sperm count to normal levels within six to twelve months.[Deutsche Welle]
- Men are less likely to seek infertility testing than women and receive no natural signals regarding fertility until attempting conception.[Deutsche Welle]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.
- Male infertility is 'grossly underreported'Deutsche Welle