VA Disability Ratings for Infertility and Reproductive System Disorders 

Infertility can affect veterans in ways that extend beyond family planning. It often creates long-term medical needs, emotional strain, and significant financial costs related to treatment and care. The VA recognizes that military service can damage reproductive health through physical injury, toxic exposure, illness, or required medical treatment. Depending on the condition and resulting complications, VA disability ratings may range from 0 percent to 100 percent. When infertility results in the loss of reproductive function, veterans may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation.

VA typically does not rate infertility by itself. Instead, it evaluates the specific disease, injury, or anatomical loss that caused the loss of fertility. Correctly claiming the ratable condition and all related residuals determines whether a claim succeeds and whether compensation reflects the full impact of the disability. Hill & Ponton can help veterans identify qualifying conditions, establish service connection, and pursue the maximum benefits allowed under VA law. 

Infertility in the Military 

Military service places unique stress on the reproductive system. Unlike many civilian causes of infertility, service-related factors often occur outside traditional medical settings. Exposure may happen during training, deployment, maintenance work, or emergency response, long before symptoms appear. Common contributors to infertility during or after service include: 

• Blunt or penetrating pelvic or genital trauma 
• Exposure to toxic substances that disrupt hormonal function 
• Radiation or chemotherapy used to treat service connected cancers 
• Long term use of medications affecting sexual or reproductive health 
• Endocrine disorders that alter hormone production or regulation 
• Infections acquired during deployment or military medical care 
• Chronic pain and sustained psychological stress that interferes with hormonal balance

These factors rarely occur in isolation. Many veterans experience multiple overlapping exposures, which can complicate diagnosis and delay recognition of fertility impairment. Substances such as PFAS, TCE, PCBs, and jet fuel have been studied for their effects on hormone regulation and reproductive health. Hill & Ponton’s Toxic Exposure Map identifies military bases where these substances were present. 

Male Infertility VA Claims and Ratings 

The VA does not assign a single diagnostic code for male infertility. Instead, it evaluates infertility based on the underlying condition or loss of function that caused the inability to reproduce. Male infertility claims are most commonly rated under 38 C.F.R. § 4.115b, which governs disabilities of the genitourinary system. Ratings depend on whether infertility results from testicular damage, surgical removal, or hormonal dysfunction. The VA evaluates testicular conditions using specific diagnostic codes such as DC 7523 (complete atrophy of both testes) and DC 7524 (removal of both testes). 

When infertility results from atrophy, removal, or hormonal failure of the testes, the VA assigns a rating based on the extent of physical loss. Hormonal conditions (such as hypogonadism) are evaluated based on ratable residuals and complications (e.g., sexual dysfunction, osteoporosis, or other diagnosed secondary conditions), and sometimes by analogous rating depending on the facts. 

Who Qualifies for Special Monthly Compensation?

If infertility results from loss or loss of use of the testes, the veteran may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation, specifically SMC-K. This benefit recognizes loss of use of a creative organ and is paid in addition to the standard disability compensation. 

Erectile dysfunction, which appears alongside infertility, is evaluated separately under Diagnostic Code 7522  and may also qualify for SMC-K. A 20 percent rating is assigned for documented penile deformity and loss of erectile power. When no deformity exists, the VA assigns a 0 percent rating, but eligibility for SMC K still applies.

Female Infertility VA Ratings

Female infertility is evaluated based on the gynecological condition, surgical history, or hormonal disorder that caused reproductive loss. Female reproductive conditions are rated under 38 C.F.R. § 4.116 and ratings depend on whether infertility results from anatomical loss, organ dysfunction, or endocrine disruption. 

Loss of or Damage to Ovaries or Uterus

Ratings vary based on whether removal is complete or partial and whether hormonal function is impaired. Conditions involving ovarian dysfunction may be rated from 0 percent to 30 percent, depending on the severity of endocrine symptoms and infertility impact. The VA uses multiple diagnostic codes for surgical removal or loss of reproductive organs. 

• DC 7617: Removal of the uterus and both ovaries (complete hysterectomy) 
• DC 7618: Removal of the uterus without removal of ovaries 
• DC 7619: Removal of both ovaries 
• DC 7615: Disease, injury, or adhesions of ovary 

When infertility results from anatomical loss or loss of ovarian function, veterans may also qualify for Special Monthly Compensation for loss of use of a creative organ. 

Infertility from Uterine Adhesions and Other Uterine or Cervical Conditions

Structural conditions affecting the uterus or cervix can prevent implantation or carrying a pregnancy to term. Their ratings depend on whether the condition requires continuous treatment and whether it results in infertility or chronic pelvic symptoms. Relevant diagnostic codes include: 

• DC 7621: Uterine prolapse  
• DC 7613 / DC 7615: Fibroids or cysts  
• DC 7611–7614: Cervical stenosis or uterine adhesions 

Endometriosis and Hormonal Disorders

• DC 7629: Endometriosis  
• DC 7615 (analogous): Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)  
• DC 7615 / DC 7619 (analogous): Premature menopause or ovarian failure 

These gynecological and endocrine disorders commonly result in infertility. They are rated from 10 percent to 30 percent, depending on hormonal imbalance, treatment requirements, and resulting reproductive impairment. Loss of fertility due to these conditions may also support entitlement to SMC K. 

How Can Infertility Be Service Connected?

To receive VA disability compensation, infertility must be linked to military service through an established legal pathway. The VA does not grant benefits for infertility unless it can be tied to a qualifying condition or event. To establish service connection, the evidence must show three elements: 

• A current diagnosis of infertility or a condition that causes infertility 
• Evidence of an in service event, injury, illness, or exposure 
• A medical nexus connecting the in-service factor to the current condition 

Each of these elements must be supported by medical or service records. While infertility often develops years after service, a delayed diagnosis does not bar service connection when medical evidence explains how service-related factors caused later reproductive damage. 

Veterans may also qualify through secondary service connection. This applies when infertility results from another condition the VA has already service connected. Hill & Ponton’s free book Roads to VA compensation explains how service connection works and what evidence strengthens these claims. 

Direct Service Connection Examples

Direct service connection applies when infertility can be traced to a specific in service event, injury, illness, or exposure. The evidence must show that the reproductive damage occurred during service or resulted directly from service conditions. 

• Reproductive organ injury caused by combat trauma or surgery. Blast injuries, penetrating wounds, or surgical procedures involving the pelvis or groin can permanently damage reproductive organs. Medical records documenting trauma, surgical reports, or line of duty findings often serve as the foundation for these claims. 
• Radiation exposure resulting in gonadal damage. Veterans exposed to radiation through occupational duties or cancer treatment during service may develop impaired sperm or egg production. Medical evidence must show that radiation exposure affected the testes or ovaries and resulted in lasting reproductive dysfunction. 
• Toxic exposure affecting hormonal regulation or reproductive organs. Exposure to substances such as PFAS, solvents, or industrial chemicals can disrupt endocrine function or directly damage reproductive tissue. Service records identifying exposure locations, combined with medical opinions linking those exposures to infertility, are critical in these cases. 

Secondary Service Connection Examples 

Secondary service connection applies when infertility develops as a result of another condition that is already service connected. The infertility itself does not need to begin during service, but it must be medically linked to the primary disability or its treatment. 

• Infertility following chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone blockers for breast cancer. Cancer treatments often impair ovarian or testicular function. When breast cancer is service connected, infertility caused by treatment may qualify as a secondary condition with supporting oncology records. 
• Medication-induced infertility related to PTSD or hypertension treatment. Certain psychiatric and cardiovascular medications interfere with sexual function, hormone levels, or reproductive capability. A medical nexus must explain how prescribed medications caused or worsened infertility. 
• Endocrine disorders secondary to service-connected thyroid disease or diabetes. Thyroid dysfunction and diabetes disrupt hormone balance essential for reproduction. When infertility results from these service-connected endocrine disorders, secondary service connection may apply. 

How to Increase a VA Disability Rating for Infertility

The VA sometimes assigns a low or noncompensable rating while overlooking related conditions that qualify for separate ratings or additional compensation. The VA bases increased ratings on evidence showing greater severity, additional functional loss, or overlooked complications. 

An increase may be appropriate when medical records show progression beyond the original evaluation. This includes changes that affect hormone production, reproductive function, or overall health. Common situations that support an increased rating include: 

• Worsening hormonal imbalance requiring ongoing or intensified treatment 
• Surgical intervention after the initial rating decision 
• New symptoms such as fatigue, bone loss, or sexual dysfunction tied to infertility 
• Medical evidence showing permanent loss of reproductive function 
• VA failure to evaluate all affected organs or systems 

An increased rating request should focus on what has changed since the last decision. Showing measurable decline or new limitations is often the key factor in approval. Without updated medical records, specialist opinions, and documentation of symptom progression, the VA may continue the existing rating. 

Rating Complications and Secondary Conditions

Veterans are entitled to compensation for the full scope of disability caused by infertility, not just the loss of reproductive function itself. Infertility rarely affects only the reproductive system. Complications may arise from hormonal imbalance, surgical intervention, or long-term medical therapy.

Each secondary condition can be evaluated separately if it results in distinct functional impairment, but must be independently diagnosed and supported by medical evidence showing that it was caused or aggravated by the service-connected reproductive condition or its treatment. To qualify for separate ratings, secondary conditions require: 

• A current medical diagnosis 
• A medical link to infertility or its treatment 
• Functional limitations not already compensated 

Mental Health 

Infertility can cause significant psychological distress, mood disturbance, impaired concentration, sleep disruption, or difficulty functioning in daily life. When these symptoms meet diagnostic criteria and are medically linked to infertility, they may be rated separately according to the VA’s General Rating Formula for Mental Disorders. Ratings range from 10 percent to 100 percent, depending on symptom severity and functional impact. Mental health conditions commonly associated with infertility include: 

• Depression related to loss of fertility or reproductive identity 
• Anxiety tied to medical uncertainty, treatment outcomes, or permanent loss 
• Adjustment disorder following diagnosis or surgical sterilization 
• Trauma related to involuntary loss of reproductive capability  

Neurological and Pain Syndromes

Infertility and its treatments can contribute to neurological and chronic pain conditions. These conditions may arise from nerve injury, hormonal disruption, or inflammation related to reproductive disease or surgery. When medical evidence links a neurological or pain condition to infertility or its treatment, the VA may assign a separate disability rating. Common neurological and pain related conditions associated with infertility include: 

• Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CPPS) resulting from post-surgical adhesions, inflammation, or nerve involvement after reproductive procedures 
• Peripheral neuropathy caused by hormonal deficiency or nerve damage from chemotherapy or radiation treatment 
• Migraines or chronic headaches triggered by fluctuations in estrogen or testosterone levels 

These conditions can cause persistent pain, sensory disturbances, or neurological impairment that affects daily functioning. Each disability is evaluated based on its own symptoms and functional impact, under the appropriate neurological or pain-related diagnostic code. The evidence in the veteran’s disability claim must explain how infertility, hormonal imbalance, or reproductive treatment directly caused or worsened the neurological condition. 

Genitourinary Complications 

Infertility related conditions and reproductive surgeries can affect bladder, pelvic, and urinary function. When these complications produce distinct symptoms or functional loss, the VA may assign separate disability ratings. Medical records must clearly distinguish these complications from symptoms already compensated under infertility or gynecological ratings. Common genitourinary complications linked to infertility include: 

• Urinary incontinence caused by nerve or muscle damage after hysterectomy, orchiectomy, or pelvic surgery 
• Pelvic adhesions or internal scar tissue resulting from surgeries for endometriosis, fibroids, or tubal repair 
• Chronic pelvic floor dysfunction secondary to reproductive surgery or long-term pelvic pain 
• Post surgical scars from hysterectomy, orchiectomy, or related procedures when scars are painful or unstable  

Musculoskeletal and Bone Conditions 

When infertility results in prolonged hormone deficiency (estrogen or testosterone) or requires hormone suppressing treatment, veterans may develop secondary musculoskeletal conditions. These conditions are evaluated separately when they cause measurable impairment not taken into account in reproductive system ratings. Common musculoskeletal and bone related conditions include: 

• Chronic joint pain resulting from estrogen or testosterone deficiency 
• Muscle weakness associated with long term hormonal imbalance 
• Osteoporosis due to reduced bone mineral density 
• Fractures resulting from hormone related bone loss 

The VA evaluates these conditions based on objective findings such as imaging studies, bone density testing, and documented functional limitations. Each disability must be supported by medical evidence linking it to infertility or infertility-related treatment. 

Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders  

Infertility-related hormonal changes can affect cardiovascular and metabolic health. Estrogen and testosterone play a role in regulating blood pressure, lipid levels, and glucose metabolism. When infertility or its treatment causes sustained hormonal imbalance, veterans may develop cardiovascular or metabolic conditions that qualify for separate VA ratings: 

• Hypertension that develops or worsens due to hormone therapy or chronic stress response
• Hyperlipidemia (as part of a diagnosed cardiovascular/metabolic condition) or metabolic syndrome associated with low testosterone or premature menopause
• Coronary artery disease related to long term hormonal deficiency, particularly estrogen loss

The VA requires medical evidence showing a causal or aggravating relationship between infertility related hormone disruption and the claimed condition. When this link is established, these disorders may be rated independently of reproductive system disabilities. 

Veterans are entitled to compensation for all resulting disabilities, not only infertility itself. Hill & Ponton’s VA-accredited attorneys can help veterans win previously denied secondary conditions, higher ratings and any back pay they may be entitled to. 

Special Monthly Compensation for Infertility 

Veterans who lose the ability to conceive or reproduce due to a service-connected condition may qualify for Special Monthly Compensation (SMC-K). This applies when infertility results from either anatomical loss or functional loss of a creative organ (the VA does not require complete organ removal). This benefit: 

• Is available to both male and female veterans 
• Covers physical removal or permanent loss of reproductive function 
• Is paid in addition to regular VA disability compensation
• Does not reduce or replace other VA benefits  

SMC-K  is often overlooked in infertility claims. Veterans may qualify even when their rating is low or zero (noncompensable), as long as they have medical evidence showing that service-connected conditions caused permanent reproductive loss: surgical reports, hormone testing, fertility evaluations, or specialist medical opinions. Hill & Ponton helps veterans identify secondary conditions, pursue higher ratings, and appeal VA decisions when infertility causes broader disability. 

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