An ever-increasing percentage of men face the problem of infertility. It is now established that many factors that are responsible for the proper functioning of the male reproductive system, have an effect from a young age.

Even in the fetal age of the boy, the exposure through the mother, to toxic environmental factors and unhealthy lifestyle (smoking, alcohol, poor diet), has negative effects on his reproductive system.

In childhood and adolescence there are various aggravating factors that act directly such as:

• environmental factors

• genetic disorders (cystic fibrosis, syndrome Klinefelter)

• cryptorchidism, testicular torsion

• varicocele

• obesity

• chemotherapy-radiotherapy

• orchitis

• testicular injury

In modern times there is relatively good parental information and follow-up by pediatricians during the first years of a boy's life regarding the size and correct position of the testicles. However, the control of the reproductive system should not stop there.

In childhood and adolescence, the early detection of pathological conditions, the identification of factors that may cause infertility as well as information on adopting a correct lifestyle can prevent male infertility. Avoiding smoking, alcohol and anabolic substances, incorporating exercise into daily life and avoiding exposure to elevated temperatures (as much as possible) can contribute to the protection of male fertility.

Systematic preventive control of the functioning of the male reproductive system from an early age is important. It is legitimate to check the quality of the sperm towards the end of puberty so that with proper treatment and monitoring of any problems, the fertilization capacity of the adult man can be significantly improved.