Tests & Investigations · 1 min
If there is consanguinity in your family, the male picture
Top things to know
In communities where cousin marriage is common, certain Y-chromosome changes are found more often.
These deletions are one cause of low or zero sperm count that lifestyle changes cannot reverse.
Depending on results, options may include ICSI, sperm retrieval, or donor sperm; a genetic counsellor can explain.
This is information to help your care team plan, not a judgement on your family.
Why is family consanguinity relevant to your male fertility results?
In some South Asian communities, particularly Pakistani and Bangladeshi Muslim, marriages between first cousins have been common across generations. This is a private family matter. It is also a piece of information that matters for male fertility.
Studies have shown higher rates of Y-chromosome microdeletions (including AZF region deletions) in men from populations with higher consanguinity rates. These deletions are one cause of low or zero sperm count that cannot be lifestyle-reversed.
What can you ask your doctor for at this appointment?
Depending on the result, options may include (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), testicular sperm extraction, donor sperm, or adoption. A genetic counsellor can help you understand what each result means for any future children.
How do you handle consanguinity information sensitively within the family?
This is not a judgement on family history. It is information that helps the team treating you make the right plan for you. Most UK fertility clinics have experience with culturally sensitive discussions and confidentiality protections.
How did this land with you?
If this helped, someone you know might need it too.
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Reviewed by clinicians
Authored and reviewed by clinicians from the founding team. Information only, not personalised medical advice.
From the team behind Her Holistic Health, founded by Dr Divpreet Sacha, NHS-trained GP.