For many years, there has been misconception regarding infertility, and in most cases, the women were to blame. Research shows that male infertility is the main factor in 30% of infertility cases. The challenge is global, and research on the cause and treatment is an ongoing process. For couples trying to get a second child, statistics show that up to 50%, male infertility is to blame. The woman should also take a fertility test to rule out any possibility that it could be a problem on their part. Men who suspect infertility problems should take fertility tests and seek treatment early enough to relieve them of the discomfort and high cost of future treatment.
Male infertility test
One should seek help from a urologist who carries out a physical exam on the semen to determine the quantity and quality of the sperm through semen analysis. The urologist may do two or more infertility tests to check for the regularity of the semen. In case one has infertility problems, the urologist may detect the following;
- No sperm production in the semen
- Low sperm count
- Sperm motility issues
- Abnormal sperm structure and form
Sometimes the above problems may be due to underlying medical conditions. The doctor may further order blood, urine, or other tests to diagnose the exact causes of male infertility.
What causes male infertility?
1. Physical organ damage or blockage
Sperm production and motility becomes impossible due to physical damage of the reproductive organs due to a birth-organ defect, physical trauma, or accidental damage. A reproductive organ birth abnormality may also block the testicles and urethra and cause infertility. Genetic diseases such as chromosomal disorder or cystic fibrosis may also cause male infertility.
2. Varicoceles
The condition results due to enlarged varicose veins in the scrotum that affect blood flow. 40% of men undergoing male infertility treatment have enlarged varicose veins. It is one of the causes of infertility in men. Symptoms include a dull pain in the scrotum, pain relief when one lies on the back, and pain in case of any physical exertion. One should seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment.
3. Erectile dysfunction
Sexual problems resulting in premature ejaculation can cause impotence. Such sexual problems may be due to trauma, anxiety, and other psychological causes. It may also be due to medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart diseases. Side effects of medications may also cause erectile dysfunction. Consulting a medical practitioner can help treat such conditions and consequently help treat impotence.
4. Hormonal and autoimmune problems
Research shows that hormonal imbalance in the thyroid and pituitary glands can cause male infertility. In some cases, autoimmune responses target the sperms and damage them, making them incapable of fertilization.
5. Infections and sexually transmitted diseases
Chlamydia and gonorrhea are some of the common diseases that cause male infertility. A doctor can identify any infection-causing male infertility through a medical exam. Treatment of reproductive health infections will cure impotence. Retrograde ejaculation is another medical condition that is responsible for male infertility. The condition causes ejaculation in the bladder instead, and that means the semen does not reach the egg for fertilization hence impotence. Diabetes and some medications may cause such problems, and treatment can help solve the impotence problem.
6. Environmental factors
Stress, obesity, and exposure to environmental hazards such as radiation, lead, and pesticides may also cause male infertility. Excessive strenuous exercises and high temperatures also impact the sperm count because they affect steroid hormones. One should avoid placing radioactive gadgets and laptops on the laps as they affect the groin temperature and lowers testosterone levels. Drug abuse, alcohol, and smoking also affect sperm count.
7. Nutrition
Diet affects sperm quality, and one should consider a diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to improve sperm count and quality. Caffeine and processed foods high in saturated fats affect sperm production. Reduction or abstaining from caffeine when one is trying to conceive is advisable. Organic fruits and vegetables that do not have exposure to pesticides and other farm chemicals are also advisable.
Treatment options for male infertility
A doctor will recommend treatment depending on the cause of the male infertility problems. Sometimes lifestyle change, diet, and psychological counseling helps. Other treatment options are;
· Assisted reproduction options such as IVF, ICSI, and GIFT
· Varicocele embolization
· Medication and surgery
Remember poor sperm and egg quality, age of the mother, health status of both partners also affects the success rate. A professional medical practitioner should adopt a diverse approach to treating infertility, and one may also consider sperm donation if all other methods fail.
Speak Your Mind