Father’s Day is traditionally a celebration of paternal bonds—an emotional tribute to fatherhood, sacrifice, and strength. But for men silently enduring fertility struggles, this holiday can feel more like a magnifying glass on unspoken grief than a day of celebration. Male infertility affects more than just the ability to conceive—it shapes self-perception, identity, and the emotional landscape of a man’s journey to parenthood.
At the Fertility Institute of San Diego, Dr. Minoos Hosseinzadeh sees the depth behind the silence.
“We talk often about the emotional impact of infertility on women, but it’s time we acknowledge the emotional toll on men, too,” says Dr. Hosseinzadeh.
“Men are not immune to the heartache of delayed fatherhood—they simply carry it differently.”
Defining Male Infertility
Male infertility is defined as a man’s inability to impregnate a female partner after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It contributes to approximately 30–50% of all infertility cases. At its core, it’s a medical condition—but the ripple effects extend into men’s mental health, relationships, and perception of self-worth.
Causes and Risk Factors
Common contributors to male factor infertility include:
- Low sperm count or motility
- Abnormal sperm morphology
- Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic disorders
- Exposure to toxins, radiation, or excessive heat
- Chronic illnesses such as diabetes or obesity
- Lifestyle factors—like smoking, marijuana use, alcohol, and steroid use—can also compromise sperm health and conception potential.
The Emotional Impact of Infertility on Men
While women often have established emotional support networks and societal permission to grieve openly, men may feel relegated to the background—expected to “stay strong” or “fix it.” This social pressure can exacerbate the infertility stigma for men, leading to internalized shame and emotional withdrawal.
Some of the psychological effects men experience include:
- Feelings of inadequacy or emasculation
- Guilt about “letting down” their partner
- Difficulty discussing emotions or seeking help
- Suppressed grief that manifests as anger or detachment
“When we don’t make space for men to speak about infertility, they suffer in silence,” adds Dr. Hosseinzadeh.
“Fertility isn’t just a women’s issue—it’s a family issue.”
Father’s Day and Infertility: A Complex Dynamic
Father’s Day and infertility intersect in complex ways. For men trying to conceive, the holiday may bring:
- Painful reminders of unmet expectations
- Isolation in social gatherings centered around children
- Unwanted questions from well-meaning friends or relatives
- A sense of invisibility in fertility conversations
Still, many continue showing up—for their partners, families, and futures—while their own grief remains unspoken.
Fertility Testing for Men: What to Expect
Getting a comprehensive fertility evaluation is a critical first step on the male fertility journey. At FISD, we offer thorough diagnostic services, including:
- Semen analysis (assessing count, motility, and morphology)
- Hormonal bloodwork (checking testosterone, FSH, LH, TSH, and prolactin)
- Scrotal ultrasound
- Genetic screening if indicated
These tests not only identify root causes but also guide tailored treatment plans based on a patient’s male reproductive health profile.
Fertility Options for Men
1. Medical or Surgical Treatment
Corrective surgery for varicocele, hormone therapy, or addressing underlying conditions can restore fertility in some men.
2. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
Technologies such as IVF and male infertility techniques like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) offer high success rates, even when sperm quality is compromised.
3. Sperm Donation
For men with non-obstructive azoospermia or severe genetic conditions, male infertility support may include choosing a sperm donor, a process that is handled with the utmost sensitivity at FISD.
4. Adoption or Surrogacy
Some individuals or couples pursue fatherhood through fertility treatment involving donor embryos, gestational carriers, or legal adoption.
Supporting Your Partner Through Infertility
Fertility challenges can strain even the strongest relationships. Open communication, vulnerability, and shared decision-making are essential. Partners should:
- Attend appointments together
- Share emotional burdens equally
- Seek couples counseling if needed
- Validate each other’s grief and hope
Coping with infertility as a man is not about stoicism—it’s about presence and partnership.
“Men don’t need to be superheroes,” says Dr. Hosseinzadeh.
“They need space to feel, to ask questions, and to be seen. That’s what we offer at Fertility Institute of San Diego.”
Breaking the Stigma: Redefining Fatherhood
The outdated idea that masculinity is tied to fertility is slowly evolving. Fatherhood after infertility is no less powerful—if anything, it carries a profound depth shaped by resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering hope.
At FISD, our one-on-one approach ensures that men are not bystanders in the process. They are seen, heard, and supported—every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
This Father’s Day, let us not forget the men who are still waiting to hear the word “Dad.” The ones who are quietly enduring appointments, test results, and emotional fatigue—all while holding space for their partner’s pain, too.
At the Fertility Institute of San Diego, we honor the courage, love, and hope of every man navigating infertility.
If you’re ready to start your fertility journey, please book a complimentary virtual consultation with Dr. Hosseinzadeh to go over fertility options or any other reproductive healthcare questions. Click here to connect.
