Men's Reproductive Health

It is important for men to protect their reproductive health and that of their partners by ensuring effective contraception, avoiding STDs, and preserving fertility.

Not all contraceptive methods are appropriate for all situations, and individuals should consult their healthcare providers to determine which method of birth control is best for them.

Men can take measures to avoid STDs by knowing a partner's STD and health history, speaking with a healthcare provider about risks and testing, practicing safe sex, and getting appropriate vaccines.

One-third of infertility cases are caused by male reproductive issues, one-third by female reproductive issues, and one-third by both male and female reproductive issues or by unknown factors.

Treatments for male infertility may be based on the underlying cause of the problem, or in the case of no identified problem, evidence-based treatments that improve fertility may be recommended.

NICHD conducts and supports research on men’s reproductive health and on many disorders associated with men’s reproductive health.

NICHD conducts and supports a variety of clinical research projects related to men’s reproductive health.

Links to websites of groups that study or provide information about men’s reproductive health.