What is male infertility?
Infertility is a reproductive-related disease that prevents you from having children. If a male and a female engage in recurrent unprotected sex for more than a year and the female does not become pregnant, you or the woman may have infertility concerns.
How common is male infertility?
Infertility affects one out of every six couples attempting to conceive. In at least half of the instances of infertility, a male component plays a significant role. In general, 30% of reproductive issues are caused by men, 30% by women, and 30-40% by a combination of the two or unknown causes. 10-15% of infertile males do not produce any sperm.
What causes?
Many factors influence the production of mature sperm. A healthy sperm is capable of moving. Problems can prevent cells from developing into sperm. Problems can prevent sperm from contacting the egg.
Male infertility can be caused by several factors, including:
- Sperm difficulties include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and abnormal sperm shape.
- Hormonal imbalances include issues with hormones such as testosterone, FSH, LH, and thyroid hormones.
- Genetic factors refer to inherited disorders that affect sperm production or function.
- Swollen veins in the scrotum that affect sperm production.
- Infections in the reproductive organs include epididymitis and prostatitis.
- Ejaculation disorders include problems with semen release, such as retrograde ejaculation.
- Environmental concerns include chemicals, heat, and radiation that can affect sperm.
- Lifestyle factors include smoking, excessive drinking, drug use, obesity, and stress.
- Medical problems include diabetes, celiac disease, cancer treatment, and specific drugs.
It is critical to see a doctor for a comprehensive examination and proper advice.
Symptoms of male infertility
The primary symptom of male infertility is an incapacity to have a child. Additionally, there may not be any other noticeable indications or signs.
In certain situations, however, symptoms are caused by a deeper issue such as a hereditary illness, pain, swelling, chronic infections of the respiratory tract, hormonal imbalance, or vein dilation around the testicle.
Problems with sexual function, such as trouble with ejaculation or tiny volumes of fluid ejaculated, decreased libido, or problems sustaining an erection.
Diagnosis and Tests
The diagnosis involves a thorough physical examination to assess overall health and discover any physical issues that may affect fertility. The doctor may also ask patients about their sexual practices. If the physical examination and history reveal no reason for failure to conceive, the next step may be to undertake tests to determine the cause of infertility.
Tests:
– Semen analysis
– pH measurement
– Sperm volume, number, speed, color, size, and shape assessment
– Sperm survival and quality tests
– Additional tests if necessary
Treatment Process
Advancements in technology have increased treatment possibilities for male infertility. Treatment options include:
- Lifestyle changes: avoiding smoking, alcohol, and drugs
- Hormone treatment to increase sperm count
- Surgical options such as vasectomy reversal or sperm retrieval
Does smoking affect male infertility?
Yes, smoking negatively affects sperm quality and fertility in men. Scientific data shows increased infertility rates among smokers. Quitting smoking, along with avoiding alcohol and drugs, improves fertility.
Prevention Tips
– Avoid smoking and alcohol
– Limit exposure to harmful chemicals
– Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise
– Stay hydrated
– Reduce stress
– Seek medical help for health issues