male infertility with fever

Overview

Male infertility means a man has difficulty getting his partner pregnant. A fever — a temporary rise in body temperature — can affect the health and number of sperm. The good news is that for most men, this effect is temporary, and sperm often recover within a few months.

Fever-related dips in sperm quality are quite common. Many men may not even notice because they are not trying to conceive at that time.

It can affect any man who has a fever, especially if the fever lasts more than a day or two. Men with existing fertility issues may notice a bigger impact.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• A fever (temperature above about 38°C / 100.4°F)
• Tiredness or weakness
• Sweating or chills
• Body aches

Symptoms in children

• This topic is about adults. For children with a fever, always seek medical advice if they are under 3 months old or have other concerning symptoms.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have a lower normal temperature, so a fever may be less obvious. Pay attention to changes in energy, confusion, or falls.

Causes

Main causes

• Infections such as flu, colds, or COVID-19
• Infections of the urinary tract, prostate, or testicles
• Other illnesses that cause a high temperature

Risk factors

• Long-lasting (chronic) illness
• Heat exposure, such as saunas or hot baths, combined with fever
• Existing fertility problems
• Smoking, heavy alcohol use, or certain medicines (talk to your doctor)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If the fever is very high (above 39°C / 102.2°F) or you feel very unwell
• If you have severe testicle pain or swelling
• If you cannot pass urine

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have had a fever and are worried about your fertility
• If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for more than a year (or 6 months if the woman is over 35)
• If you have repeated fevers or infections

Diagnosis

A doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent illnesses. They may examine you and order tests if needed.

Tests that may be done

• Semen analysis (a sample of semen is checked under a microscope for sperm count, movement, and shape)
• Blood tests to check hormone levels and look for signs of infection
• Urine test to check for urinary infections

What to expect at your appointment

If you have a fever, the doctor may advise waiting until you are better before testing sperm. Sperm take about 3 months to mature, so a semen test is most useful about 3 months after the fever.

Treatment

Most of the time, the best treatment is to treat the cause of the fever and let your body recover. Fever-reducing medicines may help, but always ask a pharmacist or doctor what is suitable for you.

Self-care at home

• Rest and drink plenty of fluids
• Keep cool — wear light clothing, use a fan, or take a lukewarm bath
• Avoid heat on the testicles, such as hot baths or saunas
• Eat well and manage stress

Medical treatments

If an infection is causing the fever, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other treatments. For fertility problems, treatments like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) may be discussed. Always ask your doctor about the options that fit your situation.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for fever-related infertility. It may be considered if there is a structural block or a varicocele (enlarged vein in the scrotum) affecting sperm, but this is not directly caused by fever.

Living with this condition

If you are trying to conceive, it can feel stressful. Try to focus on the things you can control: your health, your habits, and your communication with your partner.

Lifestyle tips

• Stop smoking and limit alcohol
• Keep a healthy weight
• Avoid recreational drugs
• Get enough sleep and exercise

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Regular moderate exercise helps your overall health, but avoid very intense exercise if you have a fever.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Fertility problems can cause anxiety, sadness, and relationship stress. It is normal to feel this way. Talking to a counsellor, joining a support group, or simply talking to your partner can help.

Prevention

You cannot always prevent a fever, but you can reduce the impact on your fertility by keeping your testicles cool, avoiding tight underwear, and treating infections early.

Vaccines

Getting vaccinated against flu and other preventable illnesses may lower your chance of getting a fever from those diseases. Ask your health visitor or doctor about recommended vaccines.

Screening programmes

If you have a history of fertility problems, a regular semen analysis can help track changes. Speak to your doctor about what screening is right for you.

Complications

If left untreated

• A fever itself is usually not harmful, but the underlying cause (like an infection) can affect sperm and overall health if left untreated.
• In rare cases, an infection in the testicles or prostate can cause long-term fertility problems.
• Prolonged high fever could lead to dehydration or other serious illness.

Long-term outlook

For most men, sperm quality returns to normal within a few months of a fever. Even when fertility is affected, many couples go on to conceive with the help of a healthcare team. It is positive to note that the body has a strong ability to heal.

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