Over the past 15 years, fertility rates in Texas have dropped from 77 to just 60 births per 1,000 women, according to the Centers for Disease Control’s National Center for Health Statistics.

Conversations about fertility challenges are often centered around women, when in reality, male-factor infertility makes up 30% of all infertility cases in heterosexual couples trying to grow their families. Another 30% of infertility cases are due to both partners or are unexplained.

Many men may find it difficult to talk about their experiences trying to conceive and believe that fertility problems will make them less masculine or negatively impact their self-esteem.

There are a wide range of possible reasons that a man may experience infertility, including environmental factors, such as smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, obesity, or medical risk factors, such as undescended testicles.

Local resources for eligible individuals in Texas

With approximately 1 in 20 men worldwide currently facing reduced fertility and declining sperm counts and sperm quality, it is important for men who may be having trouble conceiving know there are resources available.

One such resource to explore is a clinical study being conducted by Ferring Pharmaceuticals A/S in male infertility. The study is looking to enroll eligible male individuals located in the Webster-Beaumont area to investigate if a new study medication may potentially improve sperm parameters and the chance of spontaneous pregnancy in their female partner.

“As a fertility specialist, I help many couples on the path to parenthood, each with their own unique needs and experiences,” said Dr. Vicki Schnell, reproductive endocrinologist at Shady Grove Fertility. “I encourage men with low sperm counts to take a proactive role in their fertility health and review the eligibility requirements to participate in this study. Raising awareness about male infertility will help normalize the conversation, break down the cultural stigmas that currently exist and identify a path forward.”

To learn more about this clinical study, eligibility requirements, potential benefits and how to apply, please visit adamclinicaltrial.com.

The above story was produced by Senior Multi Platform Journalist Summer Anderson with Community Impact's Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of its "sponsored content" purchase through our advertising team.