What are the long-term side effects of untreated hernias on male fertility?

Untreated hernias can lead to various long-term effects on male fertility, including testicular atrophy, obstruction of the vas deferens, hormonal imbalances, chronic pain, and psychological distress. In severe cases, untreated hernias can potentially cause testicular infarction (death of testicular tissue) or testicular torsion, both of which can significantly impact fertility.