When couples struggle to conceive, the focus often turns to women. But Jessica Schardein, M.D., M.S., is working to change that narrative, one patient at a time.

As one of two male infertility specialists in Kentucky, Dr. Schardein is bringing much-needed awareness to a topic rarely discussed yet incredibly common. Up to 15% of men in the United States experience infertility, and male factor issues contribute to nearly half of all cases where couples have difficulty conceiving. With Father’s Day approaching, her work is a powerful reminder that the journey to fatherhood can take many forms and that every path is worthy of support and recognition.

Before becoming a physician, Dr. Schardein worked as a marriage and family therapist, supporting couples through the emotional toll of infertility. Today, she continues that work in a new setting as assistant professor and Director of Sexual and Reproductive Medicine in the Department of Urology.

“Infertility of any kind can be discouraging, and male infertility often leaves men feeling like they are less of a man,” shared Dr. Schardein. “A man is absolutely not any less of a man if he has infertility.”

Male infertility can stem from a wide range of factors, including lifestyle choices such as smoking, poor overall health, hormonal imbalances, genetic conditions, and environmental exposures. The most common reversible cause of male infertility is a varicocele, a dilation of the veins in the scrotum that hinders sperm production and function.

Yet, despite the heavy presence of male infertility in America, men still do not get routinely tested during an infertility evaluation. Recommendations from the American Urological Association and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine call for both male and female partners to undergo a concurrent assessment for the initial evaluation when a couple is struggling to conceive. Medical professionals of all kinds should understand that a complete medical history, physical exam, labs, and, sometimes, even more advanced testing are crucial when a couple is struggling with infertility. After all, infertility can reveal broader health issues and can even have implications for a patient’s future health.

“I view male reproductive health as an essential part of overall health, deeply connected to physical, emotional, and social well-being, and I strongly believe it should be given the same priority and access as any other aspect of health care,” explained Dr. Schardein. “Reproductive health is health.”

In her clinical practice, Dr. Schardein connects her patients with specialists across disciplines, including primary care physicians, endocrinologists, and mental health professionals. This not only ensures that all aspects of a patient’s health are addressed, but also promotes healthier behaviors and more connected care, which ultimately helps foster healthier individuals, families, and communities.

Her work is advancing the conversation surrounding male infertility by breaking down barriers that stigmatize the condition and limit access to specialty care so that all men can have the opportunity to improve their health and build their families if and when they choose to. But she can’t do it alone.

Kentucky needs more infertility specialists who can help couples achieve their dreams of becoming parents. If you’re passionate about advancing care in this critical area, the University of Louisville School of Medicine’s urology residency program can help you make an impact. Learn more and join the next generation of changemakers in reproductive medicine.