There is no doubt that infertility affects both men and women. In fact, male infertility accounts for almost 40–50% of all such cases. It can be emotionally challenging for couples who are trying to conceive. But here is the good news; with modern medicine, there are many ways to test, treat, and overcome infertility in men.
In this article we will explore the causes of male infertility and how it’s diagnosed. Moreover, we will also highlight the male fertility treatment options available today.
Common Causes of Male Infertility
There are many causes of male infertility. And many of them may be related to health, lifestyle, or genetics. Some of the most common include:
- Low sperm count: When the male body doesn’t produce enough sperm that can be a cause of male infertility.
- Poor sperm motility: If the sperm is not able to swim well, it becomes very hard to reach the egg.
- Abnormal sperm shape: If the sperm has an irregular shape it can affect fertilization.
- Hormonal problems: Hormones help in sperm production. However, imbalance can reduce fertility.
- Varicocele: Swollen veins in the scrotum can also affect sperm production leading to infertility.
- Infections: Experts state that past infections like mumps or STDs can damage the reproductive system.
- Lifestyle factors: Lifestyle choices often contribute to being the biggest and most unnoticed causes of male infertility. Smoking, alcohol, drug use, even stress and a poor diet can all reduce fertility.
- Heat exposure: Believe it or not, frequent use of hot tubs or even putting your laptops on the lap may lower sperm quality.
- Genetic issues: Some men may have genetic conditions that affect sperm production. But the probability is relatively low.
Diagnostic Tests for Male Infertility
If a couple has trouble getting pregnant, it’s important for the man to get tested too. A male infertility test can help find the exact issue. Common tests include:
- Semen analysis: This checks the sperm count as well as the movement, and shape of the sperm. Like discussed before, any problem with these factors can impact the conception process.
- Hormone testing: Blood tests check levels of testosterone and other hormones. This allows for the experts to know that if your issue is related to hormonal factors so that the required treatment could be suggested.
- Scrotal ultrasound: This helps detect problems like varicocele or blockages. If they are caught at an early stage, it can prevent the issues from becoming a serious one and assist in the smooth passage of seminal fluid.
- Genetic testing: In some cases, doctors check for inherited conditions. These allow them to diagnose the root cause. And will also minimize any further confusions that one may have.
- Urine or infection tests: These check for past or current infections.
Doing these tests helps doctors choose the best treatment for male infertility.
Advanced Treatment Options
Once the problem is known, there are many male fertility treatment options available. Some are simple, while others use advanced medical technology.
Here are some male fertility options:
- Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, eating healthy, exercising, and reducing stress can improve fertility.
- Medication: Hormone treatments or other drugs can help improve sperm count or correct hormone imbalances.
- Surgery: If there is a blockage or varicocele, surgery might fix the problem.
Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART):
- IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): Sperm is collected and placed directly in the woman’s uterus.
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): Sperm and egg are combined in a lab, and the embryo is placed in the uterus.
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A single sperm is injected into an egg. This is often used when sperm count is very low.
These methods have helped many men become fathers even with serious fertility issues.
When to Seek Help
If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for over a year and have not been successful (or six months if the woman is over 35), it’s time to see a doctor. Early testing and diagnosis will make it easier for you to choose the right treatment, in case there is a serious male infertility problem. Therefore, it is recommended by experts to not wait too long, some issues are easier to fix when caught early. So better safe than sorry!
Final Thoughts
Male infertility can put an immense toll on men, but one needs to understand that it’s not uncommon. With the right tests at the right time, along with necessary healthy changes, and modern treatments, many men can attain confidence in their manhood and ultimately become fathers. Hence, if you suspect a problem, get a male infertility test as soon as possible. Do not make this a matter of your ego, rather focus on getting treated. Talking to a fertility doctor will clear all your queries. Remember, male fertility is treatable in many cases. and you’re not alone on this journey.