Can a Man with One Testicle Father a Child? Fertility Facts

Yes, a man with one testicle (monorchism) can father a child.

Why It's Possible

• One healthy testicle typically produces sufficient sperm for fertilization (normal sperm count >15 million/mL; one testis can compensate).
• Many men are born with one testicle (cryptorchidism, agenesis) or lose one to trauma/torsion/cancer and retain fertility.

Potential Considerations

• Reduced Reserve: Sperm count/quality may be lower than with two testes, potentially prolonging time to conception.
• Underlying Cause Matters: If loss was due to cancer (testicular), chemotherapy/radiation may affect remaining testis. If cryptorchidism, early orchiopexy improves outcome.
• Hormonal Function: Leydig cells in remaining testis usually maintain normal testosterone.

Recommendation

If conception doesn't occur within 6–12 months (or 6 months if female partner >35), both partners should undergo fertility evaluation (semen analysis, hormonal profile, female workup).