Every couple of years this concern bubbles up. It seems to be established that sperm counts in males are going down. But I’ve yet to see substantial evidence about the possible causes. The effect of plasticisers e.g. were found in animal models usually with rather high doses. An increase of obesity over the last 50 years might also be a likely cause as obesity is linked with hormonal issues. Furthermore, the average age of first time parents has increased significantly. That could also explain why IVF got more popular as sperm counts (and egg „quality“) are age dependent as well.
AFAIK there is no empirical study today proving any link between environmental issues and sperm counts.
Apparently it's happening in dogs too: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/08/160809095138.h...
But not necessarily in farm animals.
We know for a fact that phthalates have an effect on embryo development, and good luck avoiding those.
So while yes, for people it may be less of an issue, the same cannot be said for wildlife, where it becomes another nail in the extinction coffin.
You have my sympathies for going through a this procedure even though I never had to do that.
But I'm sorry you've put such an important emphasis on having kids in your relationship. The fact that you live in a society where that's reasonable is immensely sad, to me.
You should feel whole without children, and the fact that you don't is the real tragedy, IMO.
Are you always this antagonistic and reductive?