By David Adamson, M.D.
Male infertility is an impactful yet under-recognized issue affecting tens of millions of men worldwide. Despite its increased prevalence, there is limited awareness and inadequate insurance coverage that prevent many men from seeking diagnosis and treatment.
As June is Men’s Health Month and includes Father’s Day, this is an ideal time to address the importance of comprehensive fertility benefits for men in the workplace. Employers can play a pivotal role by providing male fertility benefits, ensuring equitable access to reproductive healthcare and supporting employee well-being, retention and productivity.
THE GROWING CONCERN OF MALE INFERTILITY
Prevalence and Causes of Male Infertility
Male infertility is a significant but often overlooked health issue, affecting tens of millions of individuals and couples worldwide. According to the National Health Statistics Reports, 11.4% of men aged 15–49 experience some form of infertility, a figure that underscores the need for increased awareness and proactive healthcare strategies[i].
Additionally, 1 in 6 couples[ii] struggle with conception, with male factors contributing in nearly 50% of cases[iii], making male infertility almost as prevalent as female infertility in reproductive challenges. Despite these staggering statistics, male reproductive health remains rarely considered in public health discussions and workplace benefits programs.
Several underlying factors contribute to male infertility, often making diagnosis and treatment complex. Environmental exposures play a crucial role, with research showing that prolonged contact with toxicants, industrial chemicals, radiation, pesticides and excessive heat can negatively impact sperm production and function[iv]. Professions that involve excessive heat exposure, such as welding, firefighting or prolonged sitting (e.g., truck driving), have been linked to increased infertility rates due to the detrimental effects of elevated scrotal temperatures on sperm development.
In addition to environmental risks, lifestyle choices significantly influence male fertility. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, poor diet, obesity and sedentary habits have all been correlated with reduced sperm count, motility and morphology. Obesity, in particular, is associated with hormonal imbalances that can suppress testosterone and impair sperm production. Studies have shown that men with higher body mass indexes (BMIs) are more likely to experience low sperm counts and decreased overall fertility[v].
A growing concern in reproductive medicine is the apparent global decline in sperm counts. Studies indicate that sperm counts have decreased by more than 50% over the last five decades, raising alarms among fertility specialists and researchers[vi].
Why Male Infertility Remains Underdiagnosed
Despite its high prevalence, male infertility remains underdiagnosed, underreported and undertreated, leading to missed opportunities for intervention and family planning support. One of the most significant barriers is social stigma and masculinity norms[vii]. In many cultures, fertility is strongly linked to masculinity and virility, leading many men to perceive infertility as a personal failure rather than a medical condition.
Another contributing factor is the historical focus on female infertility in reproductive health initiatives. The medical community and fertility industry have traditionally prioritized female reproductive care, often placing the burden of fertility treatments on women rather than encouraging equivalent evaluation of both partners.
Compounding these challenges is the lack of insurance coverage for male infertility testing and treatment. Many health insurance plans do not cover basic semen analysis, diagnostic testing or male fertility treatments, leaving affected individuals with limited access to medical support unless they pay out of pocket.
For men who do seek fertility treatment, cost remains a major barrier. Without employer-backed fertility benefits, many face potentially steep expenses for diagnostic evaluations, hormone therapies, sperm retrieval procedures or assisted reproductive technologies. The average cost of the more expensive male fertility treatments, including surgical sperm retrieval and hormone therapy, can range from $5,000 to $15,000 per treatment cycle, making affordability a significant concern[viii]. The financial strain discourages many men from pursuing medical interventions, leading to untreated conditions that could otherwise be managed with early detection and appropriate treatment.
The lack of employer-provided fertility benefits for men exacerbates these issues, contributing to delayed diagnoses, emotional distress and overall poor health outcomes for employees facing reproductive challenges. Without access to comprehensive fertility benefits, male employees may struggle with workplace productivity, mental health issues and long-term dissatisfaction, ultimately impacting employee retention, engagement and overall well-being.
As awareness grows around the importance of inclusive reproductive healthcare, it is important that employers, policymakers and healthcare providers address these gaps in care. By offering equitable fertility benefits that include male infertility testing, treatment options and reproductive counseling, employers can support their workforce more effectively while fostering a culture of inclusivity and proactive health management.
MEN’S HEALTH MONTH AND FATHER’S DAY: A CALL TO ACTION FOR EMPLOYERS
June 2025: Key Month for Men’s Health and Fertility Awareness
June is a crucial time for raising awareness about men’s health, with Men’s Health Month[ix] emphasizing preventable conditions that disproportionately affect men. However, male reproductive health remains largely absent from these discussions, often overshadowed by broader health concerns.
Father’s Day, also in June, further highlights the emotional toll of infertility, serving as a poignant reminder for men struggling to conceive. Given that the workplace is where most adults spend a significant portion of their time, employers have an opportunity to foster a more open and supportive dialogue around reproductive health.
By leveraging Men’s Health Month and Father’s Day as catalysts for awareness, businesses can implement educational initiatives, provide resources and introduce inclusive benefits programs that address male infertility. Employers that actively participate in normalizing conversations about fertility health help destigmatize the issue, encourage early intervention and ensure employees have access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare options.
Bridging the Gap with Fertility Benefits for Men
Despite its prevalence, male infertility remains largely ignored in traditional employee benefits plans, which often prioritize female-focused reproductive care such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), egg freezing and maternity support.
By expanding healthcare benefits to include male fertility services, employers can close this gap and support the well-being of their workforce. A comprehensive male fertility benefits program should encompass several key components to ensure early detection, effective treatment and emotional support.
First, fertility testing should be covered as part of routine healthcare screenings, including semen analysis, hormone assessments and genetic evaluations. Studies show that early diagnosis of male infertility can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the need for more costly interventions later on[x]. By integrating these diagnostic services into employer-sponsored health plans, companies empower male employees to take a proactive approach to their reproductive health.
Beyond testing, treatment options must also be accessible and covered under healthcare plans. Male fertility treatment options include varicocele repair, hormone therapy, fertility hormones, intrauterine insemination (IUI), assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and specialized procedures like microscopic testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE). Offering financial assistance or insurance coverage for these procedures ensures that male employees can receive the necessary care without the burden of excessive out-of-pocket expenses.
Additionally, sperm preservation should be incorporated into benefits packages, allowing men to freeze their sperm for future family building. This option is particularly valuable for individuals undergoing medical treatments that may impact fertility, such as chemotherapy or testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), as well as for those who wish to delay parenthood.
Recognizing the emotional toll of infertility, counseling and mental health support must also be included in fertility benefits. Studies show that men experiencing infertility are more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression, yet fewer than 25% of them seek psychological support due to stigma or lack of access[xi]. By offering employee assistance programs (EAPs) with specialized reproductive health counseling, employers can help reduce stress, improve mental resilience and encourage employees to seek professional guidance.
Organizations that integrate male fertility benefits into their healthcare offerings not only enhance employee well-being but also contribute to a more productive and satisfied workforce. Employees facing fertility challenges often experience increased stress and distraction at work, leading to lower engagement and performance. However, companies that actively support male reproductive health see improvements in retention, job satisfaction and overall workplace morale.
By taking proactive steps to bridge the gap in male fertility benefits, employers demonstrate their commitment to inclusive healthcare, gender equity and employee well-being. With Men’s Health Month and Father’s Day providing the perfect opportunity to launch fertility awareness initiatives, businesses can begin making meaningful strides toward supporting all employees on their reproductive health journeys.
BEST PRACTICES FOR IMPLEMENTING MALE FERTILITY BENEFITS
Key Components of a Strong Fertility Benefits Plan
As awareness of male infertility grows, employers have a unique opportunity to support their workforce by integrating comprehensive fertility benefits into their healthcare offerings. A well-structured fertility benefits program can help employees access early diagnostic testing, receive necessary treatments and plan for their reproductive future without excessive financial burdens. By including male fertility as a core component of workplace healthcare plans, organizations not only improve employee well-being but also foster a culture of inclusivity and proactive health management.
To ensure effectiveness, a strong male fertility benefits plan should encompass several critical components. First, a strong fact-based, digital awareness and education program is needed. This should be integrated with personalized clinical navigation by specialists who can help men access the services they need. Care should be provided in Centers of Excellence with physicians and providers with expertise in male fertility.
Comprehensive fertility testing and screenings should be a fundamental part of employer-sponsored health coverage, allowing employees to undergo semen analysis, hormone assessments and genetic screenings as part of routine health check-ups. Studies indicate that early detection of fertility issues can significantly improve treatment outcomes, making these tests a valuable investment in preventive care.
Beyond diagnostics, comprehensive insurance coverage for male fertility treatments is crucial for employees needing medical intervention. While most employer-sponsored fertility benefits prioritize female reproductive health, coverage for male-specific procedures remains limited or absent. Expanding insurance plans to include varicocele repair, hormone therapy, IUI, IVF and micro-TESE ensures that men facing infertility have equitable access to essential reproductive care.
Additionally, access to reproductive specialists, sperm preservation services and counseling should be included as part of a comprehensive fertility benefits package. Meanwhile, emotional and psychological support through reproductive counseling can help employees navigate the stress and uncertainty of infertility, reducing workplace-related distractions and improving overall mental health.
By incorporating these essential elements into their fertility benefits plans, employers can offer a well-rounded, inclusive approach to reproductive healthcare, ensuring that all employees—regardless of gender—have equal access to fertility support and treatment options.
Employer Strategies for Awareness and Engagement
Many employees may be unaware of their reproductive health options, hesitant to seek help due to stigma or uncertain about how to navigate fertility-related healthcare services. Employers must take proactive steps to communicate, educate and normalize discussions around male infertility within the workplace.
An effective approach is to integrate fertility education initiatives into key awareness events like Men’s Health Month and Father’s Day. These occasions offer a valuable platform to emphasize male reproductive health, raise infertility awareness and promote available fertility benefits. Workshops, webinars and Q&A sessions with reproductive health specialists can further dispel misconceptions, foster open dialogue and help reduce the stigma surrounding male infertility.
Another critical aspect of engagement is human resources (HR) and benefits communication strategies. Employers should ensure that fertility benefits are clearly explained in company handbooks, onboarding materials and benefits portals, making them easily accessible to employees.
Confidentiality and privacy should be emphasized, reassuring employees that they can seek fertility support without fear of discrimination or workplace bias. Additionally, training HR professionals and benefits managers to handle fertility-related inquiries with sensitivity and expertise will enhance employee trust and comfort in accessing these services.
Finally, establishing partnerships with reproductive health providers can further enhance the effectiveness of fertility benefits. Employers can collaborate with fertility clinics, telehealth services and reproductive health organizations to offer discounted or streamlined access to specialized care.
These partnerships can also facilitate second-opinion consultations, provide educational content and create seamless referral networks for employees seeking reproductive assistance.
By integrating educational initiatives, transparent communication strategies and healthcare partnerships, employers can maximize the utilization and impact of male fertility benefits. When employees feel supported in their reproductive health journeys, they are more engaged, productive and committed to their workplace, contributing to a healthier, more inclusive company culture.
THE FUTURE OF MALE FERTILITY BENEFITS IN WORKPLACE HEALTHCARE
Policy Changes and Expanding Insurance Coverage
As the demand for inclusive fertility benefits continues to grow, legislative and corporate policies are evolving to address the gaps in male reproductive healthcare. Historically, fertility coverage has primarily focused on female reproductive health, leaving male infertility treatments, diagnostics and support services underfunded and frequently excluded from employer-sponsored insurance plans. However, recent state-level and federal initiatives signal a shift toward mandating fertility benefits that include both male and female reproductive health needs[xii].
Several states have expanded fertility insurance mandates, requiring coverage for male infertility evaluations and treatments. However, many still lack specific provisions for male reproductive care, leaving essential services like semen analysis, hormone testing and varicocele repair uncovered. As efforts to establish equitable reproductive healthcare policies gain momentum at both state and federal levels, employers may need to update their benefits to comply with evolving regulations.
Recognizing growing employee demand, forward-thinking companies are proactively enhancing fertility benefits beyond legal requirements. Industries with highly competitive talent markets, such as technology, finance and healthcare, are leading the way by ensuring inclusive reproductive healthcare coverage for both men and women. Expanding these benefits strengthens employee retention, workplace morale and overall well-being.
Additionally, corporate benefits programs are beginning to align with global trends in reproductive healthcare, as companies with international workforces adapt to varying legal landscapes and employee expectations.
Employers who implement standardized fertility benefits across different regions will gain a competitive advantage, attracting top talent and setting new benchmarks for workplace healthcare inclusivity. As more companies prioritize reproductive healthcare, male fertility benefits will become a standard, rather than an exception, in employer-sponsored health plans.
Innovations in Male Fertility Treatment and Testing
The landscape of male fertility treatment and diagnostic testing is rapidly evolving, with technological advancements improving accessibility, convenience and success rates. These innovations are reshaping how men approach fertility assessments and treatment options, allowing for earlier interventions and more personalized care.
One of the most notable advancements in reproductive healthcare is the development of at-home fertility testing kits, offering men a private, convenient and cost-effective way to assess their reproductive health[xiii]. These kits analyze sperm count, motility and morphology using smartphone-connected devices, with results delivered through secure digital platforms. Telemedicine services specializing in male fertility further enhance accessibility, allowing men to consult with reproductive health experts remotely—reducing barriers to care and addressing privacy concerns.
Advancements in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are also improving treatment success rates for male infertility. Procedures such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), TESE and micro-TESE enable men with low sperm counts or non-obstructive azoospermia to father biological children. Once considered experimental, these treatments are now widely available and increasingly covered by employer-sponsored fertility plans, making them more accessible to those in need.
Other emerging innovations include non-hormonal male contraceptive advancements, which may play a dual role in both fertility preservation and male reproductive health management. Research into sperm regeneration therapies, artificial sperm cell development and gene-editing technologies is paving the way for new treatment options that could redefine the field of male reproductive medicine[xiv].
As fertility technology continues to evolve, employers who integrate cutting-edge reproductive health solutions into their benefits packages will set the standard for progressive workplace healthcare. By offering comprehensive male fertility benefits, businesses position themselves as leaders in employee wellness, ensuring that male employees have access to the latest advancements in reproductive healthcare.
THE PATH AHEAD: INTEGRATING MALE FERTILITY SUPPORT INTO EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
As awareness of reproductive health grows, male fertility remains largely overlooked in workplace wellness programs. Despite male factors contributing to nearly 50% of infertility cases, many employees lack access to diagnostic testing, treatment options and emotional support. Employers who integrate male fertility benefits can significantly improve workforce well-being, reduce stress-related productivity losses and foster a more inclusive work environment.
The workplace is uniquely positioned to help break the stigma surrounding male infertility. Events like Men’s Health Month and Father’s Day offer opportunities to normalize discussions on reproductive health and encourage early screenings. Companies that prioritize fertility awareness initiatives and expand healthcare offerings will create an environment where employees feel supported, valued and empowered to take charge of their reproductive health.
This article originally appeared in the May/June 2025 issue of Journal of Compensation and Benefits.
[i] National Center for Health Statistics. National Health Statistics Reports: Male Infertility Prevalence and Trends, 2015–2019. April 24, 2024. Accessed on 2/170/25 at https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhsr/nhsr202.pdf.
[ii] World Health Organization. 1 in 6 People Globally Affected by Infertility. April 4, 2023. Accessed on 2/10/25 athttps://www.who.int/news/item/04-04-2023-1-in-6-people-globally-affected-by-infertility.
[iii] National Library of Medicine. Male Infertility: Overview and Causes. Updated July 17, 2023. Accessed on 2/10/25 athttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562258/.
[iv] Global Action on Men’s Health. Out of Focus: The Representation of Men in Regional and Global Sexual and Reproductive Health Policy. September 4, 2024. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://gamh.org/sexual-health-report/.
[v] ScienceDirect. Trends and Challenges in Male Infertility: A Comprehensive Review. Published 2023. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1521693423001013.
[vi] Human Reproduction Update. Temporal Trends in Sperm Count: A Systematic Review and Meta-Regression Analysis. Volume 29, Issue 2, 2023. Accessed on 2/10/25 athttps://academic.oup.com/humupd/article/29/2/157/6824414?login=false.
[vii] National Library of Medicine. Insurance Coverage for Male Infertility Care in the United States. Published 2023. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10158256/.
[viii] National Library of Medicine. The Socioeconomic and Psychological Impact of Male Infertility: A Review. Published 2021. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7992531/.
[ix] https://menshealthmonth.org/
[x] National Library of Medicine. The Global Decline in Sperm Count: A Discussion of Causes and Implications. Published 2018. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5850791/.
[xi] BMC Public Health. Barriers to Seeking Male Infertility Treatment: A Global Perspective. Published 2023. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://bmcpublichealth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12889-023-16865-4.
[xii] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). National Action Plan for Addressing Infertility. Published 2023. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://www.cdc.gov/reproductive-health/media/pdfs/infertility/DRH-NAP-Final-508.pdf.
[xiii] National Library of Medicine. Psychological Impact of Male Infertility and Barriers to Care. Published 2017. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5745266/.
[xiv] SAGE Journals. Advances in Male Fertility Research and Treatment Options. Published 2021. Accessed on 2/10/25 at https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/20417314211060590.