As per several types of research carried out by various agencies, it has been found that in about 33% of the cases, the problem is with the man. It is a growing challenge among couples putting an effort to conceive.
Infertility treatment for men like Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) such as IVF and IUI can help reverse the effects of infertility. However, if no major issue is identified by the fertility expert, it can be brought under control by making lifestyle changes, taking supplements, and a proper diet.
What Constitutes Male Infertility?
There are several causes of male infertility and the following traits of sexual function and semen quality can potentially influence your fertility:
Erectile Dysfunction: Erectile dysfunction or impotence is the condition wherein a man is unable to sustain an erection during the duration of sexual intercourse until ejaculation. Some of the common symptoms of erectile dysfunction include failure to get an erection, erections that do not last long enough for the entire duration of sex, erections that are too soft for sex.
Libido: A man’s yearning to have sex or his libido can be a reason for infertility, particularly when he has a low sex drive. Some of the common causes of low libido include prescription medicines, low testosterone, too much or too little exercise, drug use, and alcohol. Psychological issues can also lead to low libido include depression, stress, and problems in your relationship.
Semen Volume: For a man to impregnate a woman, a specific volume of semen is essential. This bare minimum volume of semen is important to carry sperms through a woman’s reproductive tract.
Sperm Motility: A key indicator of healthy sperms is their capacity to swim which is quantified as the ratio of moving sperms in a sample of semen. Healthy sperm motility is characterized as sperm with forward movements of at least 25 micrometers per second. Asthenospermia is the condition wherein a man suffers from sperm motility issues.
Testosterone Levels: Among a few men, low levels of testosterone or the male sex hormone might be the reason for infertility.
Generally, the normal testosterone levels are about 270-1070 ng/dL with an average level of 679 ng/dL. Usually, testosterone level peaks when a man is 20 and declines thereafter. Testosterone levels below or above the normal range are believed to be out of balance.
What Causes Male Infertility?
Lifestyle choices, ailments, chronic diseases, are some of the common factors that play a role in triggering male infertility. Here is a list of some of the major causes of male fertility:
Retrograde ejaculation: When the muscles and nerves and in your bladder do not close during orgasm, the semen may go backward. This condition is known as retrograde ejaculation.
Immunologic infertility: There are instances when a man produces antibodies that attack his own sperm. These antibodies keep sperm from working properly, making it hard for sperms to enter the fallopian tube.
Sperm disorders: The primary reason for male infertility is a sperm disorder. In this condition, the body struggles to produce enough sperm. Some common sperm disorders include oddly shaped sperm, sperms not moving in the right direction, and partially developed.
Medical causes: There are many functional factors that have a negative impact on sperm delivery and production. One such factor is the swelling of veins that drain the testicle and lower sperm quality. Other factors include tumor blockages, infections, hormonal imbalances, and chromosomal defects.
