What is male fertility?
Male fertility depends on making healthy sperm and delivering them successfully. The process is guided by the brain, which releases LH to prompt testosterone production and FSH to support sperm development in the testes. A full cycle of sperm production takes a couple of months, which means today's habits can be reflected in sperm quality later. Age, heat, weight, sleep, alcohol and smoking are all linked to sperm health.
How your genes play a role
Genes influence how the testes respond to hormone signals, how testosterone is converted into other forms, and how strongly tissues respond to androgens. Some genes relate to the energy that powers sperm movement, which comes from mitochondria. Others affect the development of the ducts that carry sperm. These variants describe tendencies and context, and they cannot predict whether someone will father a child.
Fertility is often thought of as a female topic, yet male factors play a role in many couples' journeys. Understanding your genetic context can encourage earlier, more open conversations and a clearer view of what is within your control. Because sperm renews continuously, everyday habits can make a real difference over time. Your results can be a helpful companion to a semen analysis and medical advice.
What your report shows
Your Male Fertility results are explained in plain language in your private EvoDNA account, alongside the other areas in your kit.
- Hormone responseHow your FSH and LH receptor genes may influence testicular response to brain signals.
- Androgen sensitivityVariants in the androgen receptor linked to how tissues respond to testosterone.
- Testosterone conversionHow your body may convert testosterone into DHT and estrogen.
- Sperm energyVariants in mitochondrial genes linked to the energy that powers sperm movement.
| Gene | What it does | Result |
|---|---|---|
| AR | Codes for the androgen receptor, which lets cells respond… | Typical |
| FSHR | Codes for the receptor for FSH, a hormone that… | Moderate effect |
| SRD5A2 | Makes the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, important… | Typical |
Each result comes with a plain-language explanation and practical points to discuss with your clinician.
Illustration only. Your report reflects your own genetic results.
Genes we analyze
| Gene | Role |
|---|---|
| AR | Codes for the androgen receptor, which lets cells respond to testosterone and supports sperm production. |
| FSHR | Codes for the receptor for FSH, a hormone that supports the cells that nurture developing sperm. |
| SRD5A2 | Makes the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT, important for male reproductive development. |
| CFTR | Codes for a channel protein, and certain variants are linked to differences in the ducts that carry sperm. |
| POLG | Makes the enzyme that copies mitochondrial DNA, supporting the energy supply that sperm rely on to swim. |
Full panel: 12 genes
AR, SRD5A1, SRD5A2, CYP19A1, 17β-HSD, FSH, LH, FSHR, LHR, CFTR, NOS1, POLG
Putting results to use
Many people use their results as a starting point for conversations with their clinician about:
Sperm develop best slightly below body temperature, so frequent hot tubs or laptops on the lap are often discussed.
Weight and metabolic health are commonly linked with testosterone balance and sperm quality.
Reducing tobacco and heavy drinking is often one of the first topics a clinician raises.
Testosterone production follows a daily rhythm that relies on good sleep.
Questions
Can my DNA tell me if I am fertile?
No. Fertility is best assessed with a semen analysis and medical evaluation. Your genes add context about tendencies but cannot confirm or rule out fertility.
How quickly can habits affect sperm?
Because sperm take a couple of months to develop, changes in habits are often reflected in sperm quality after a similar period.
Who should I talk to about my results?
A urologist or fertility specialist can interpret your results alongside any tests and help you decide on next steps.
Only interested in this area? The Male Fertility Genetic Report is available on its own for $99.00.
