Male fertility is more common than you might think. A couple's ability to conceive can be significantly impacted by male infertility, which is a widespread yet often overlooked issue.
We will examine the causes, signs, and treatments of male infertility, as well as debunk some widespread beliefs.
What Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility is described as a couple's inability to conceive or sustain a pregnancy for at least a year if the female partner is under 35 or for six months if the female partner is over 35 as a result of issues with the male partner. According to estimates, male factors contribute up to 50% of cases of infertility. Men are regarded as subfertile if they have less sperm counts. Let’s explore the male infertility causes.
Common Causes of Male Infertility
Low Sperm Count: The likelihood of fertilising an egg is decreased by a low sperm count, also known as oligospermia. This may be brought on by hormone imbalances, hereditary issues, or even environmental factors.
Poor Sperm Quality: Sperm morphology (shape and size) and motility (ability to move) are other important factors in fertility. Abnormalities in these aspects can hinder sperm's ability to reach and penetrate the egg.
Varicocele: This is a condition where the scrotal veins expand, raising the temperature of the testicles. High temperatures can have a negative impact on sperm function and production.
Ejaculation Problems: Issues with ejaculation such as retrograde ejaculation, in which the sperm exits the penis rather than the bladder, and premature ejaculation can lead to infertility.
Hormonal Imbalances: Hormones that control sperm production include testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Any imbalance in these hormones can impact fertility.
Genetic Factors: Mutations and abnormalities in the DNA can have an impact on sperm structure and function, as well as on sperm production.
Lifestyle: A person's lifestyle and the environment they live in can have an effect on the health of their sperm. For example: smoking, binge drinking, drugs abuse, being exposed to chemicals, and working in particular jobs that require exposure to heat can result in male infertility.
Symptoms of Male Infertility/Subfertility
Male infertility has no warning label, and in most situations, it can't be diagnosed based on any external signs or symptoms. A small percentage of men do show signs of an underlying illness that could lead to infertility. Common male infertility symptoms may include:
- Difficulty in ejaculating
- Lower libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Inflammation around testicles
- Respiratory issues
- Breast enlargement
- Reduced facial or body hair
Diagnosis of Male Infertility
Identifying the underlying cause requires a number of male infertility tests and examinations. The important tests include:
Semen analysis: The most popular test, it evaluates the quantity, quality, and motility of sperm.
Hormone testing: Blood tests can assist in identifying the levels of several hormones, including testosterone, FSH, and LH, which are essential for the generation of sperm.
Scrotal ultrasound: This imaging method can find structural problems with the testes or problems like varicoceles.
Genetic test: Genetic testing can reveal mutations or abnormalities that impair fertility if a genetic cause is suspected.
Treatments for Male Infertility
Depending on the precise reason of infertility, a particular treatment may be necessary. Typical strategies include:
Medication: Drugs that promote sperm production and enhance fertility are frequently used to treat hormonal abnormalities.
Lifestyle Modifications: Sperm quality can be greatly enhanced by leading a healthy lifestyle that includes giving up smoking, consuming less alcohol, controlling stress, and eating a balanced diet.
Surgery: Surgical techniques can be used to treat physical conditions like varicocele repair or unblocking the ejaculatory duct.
Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART): These procedures, such as Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) and In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), collect and prepare sperm for fertilisation outside the body.
Also Read: Fertility Challenges in PCOS: Treatment Options and Coping Strategies
Myths About Infertility
There are a number of myths about male infertility that should be dispelled, including the following:
- Infertility is only a female problem.
- Male infertility is caused by tight pants.
- Infertility is an uncommon issue.
- Once infertility is diagnosed, nothing can be done.
Couples may struggle with male infertility, particularly the man who may feel burdened by guilt. Remember that infertility is not anybody’s fault. With the right effective treatment, it is more than likely that one will overcome the condition. If you're feeling discouraged or hopeless, talk to your partner and consider seeking professional counselling. Joining an online support group and hearing other men's success stories in overcoming infertility may encourage you getting over this issue.
Agilus Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Fortis Healthcare Limited
