Appointments
+(603) 5515 1966
General Line
+(603) 5515 1888
December 14, 2024
Infertility is a sensitive and complex issue that affects millions of couples worldwide. While traditionally viewed as a women’s health problem, research indicates that male factors contribute to approximately 40-50% of infertility cases. Male infertility can result from various physical, genetic, hormonal, or environmental factors. The good news is that advancements in medical science have made diagnosing and treating male infertility more accessible and effective than ever.
This comprehensive guide covers male infertility symptoms, causes, diagnosis, types, and treatment options, and answers critical questions like “Can male infertility be cured?” and “Is male infertility permanent?”
Male infertility occurs when a couple is unable to conceive despite having regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for at least a year. While issues with sperm count and quality are common culprits, other factors can contribute, including hormonal imbalances, problems with the male reproductive system, and certain lifestyle choices.
Male infertility symptoms can sometimes be subtle and go unnoticed until a couple struggles to conceive. Here are common signs:
Understanding the underlying male infertility causes can help in determining the most effective treatment options. These causes can be divided into physical, genetic, hormonal, lifestyle, and environmental factors.
Enlarged veins in the scrotum can disrupt the normal flow, leading to impaired sperm production. Obstructions in the reproductive tract, such as in the vas deferens or epididymis, can prevent sperm from being ejaculated.
Conditions such as mumps orchitis, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or urinary tract infections can damage sperm production or block sperm passage. Retrograde ejaculation, a condition where sperm flows backwards into the bladder instead of out through the urethra during ejaculation, can also contribute to infertility. Additionally, trauma or surgical procedures on the testicles, pelvis, or reproductive tract may cause infertility.
Chromosomal abnormalities, such as Klinefelter syndrome (XXY chromosomal pattern), can lead to impaired sperm production. Y chromosome deletions and genetic mutations can also affect sperm production genes. Additionally, cystic fibrosis, a hereditary condition, is often linked to the congenital absence of the vas deferens.
Disorders in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland can result in low levels of testosterone and other hormones crucial for sperm production. Conditions like hypogonadism (reduced testicular function) or hyperprolactinemia (elevated prolactin levels).
Substance abuse, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and recreational drug use, can significantly decrease sperm quality and count. Additionally, carrying excess weight can result in hormonal imbalances and elevated scrotal temperatures, further affecting sperm production. Chronic stress can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to decreased sperm production. Furthermore, a sedentary lifestyle and prolonged periods of sitting can have a detrimental impact on sperm health.
Exposure to toxins such as pesticides, heavy metals, or industrial chemicals can have a detrimental effect on sperm production. Additionally, frequent exposure to heat sources like saunas, hot tubs, or tight clothing can also decrease sperm count. It is important to be mindful of these factors in order to maintain optimal reproductive health.
Male infertility can be caused by issues with sperm production, quality, or delivery. Let’s look at its different types:
Oligospermia is a medical condition characterised by a lower-than-normal sperm count in the ejaculate, which can significantly reduce the likelihood of successful fertilization.
Azoospermia is a condition characterised by the absence of sperm in the ejaculate, rendering natural conception unattainable. Obstructive Azoospermia occurs when blockages in the reproductive tract, such as in the vas deferens or epididymis, prevent the release of sperm. On the other hand, Non-Obstructive Azoospermia is typically attributed to testicular failure or hormonal imbalances that hinder sperm production.
Asthenozoospermia is a condition characterised by low sperm motility, which impairs their ability to effectively swim towards the egg. Despite having a normal sperm count, poor motility can significantly hinder the process of fertilisation.
This condition is characterised by a high percentage of abnormally shaped sperm, which can hinder the sperm’s ability to successfully penetrate and fertilise the egg.
Necrozoospermia is a condition characterised by the presence of dead or non-viable sperm in the semen. This condition renders fertilisation impossible, as non-viable sperm are unable to successfully fertilize an egg.
OAT syndrome is a condition that encompasses low sperm count (oligospermia), poor motility (asthenozoospermia), and abnormal morphology (teratospermia). This condition can greatly diminish fertility and may necessitate the use of advanced reproductive techniques to achieve conception.
Diagnosing male infertility involves a comprehensive assessment by a healthcare professional. Here’s what the diagnostic process typically entails:
To diagnose male infertility, the doctor will first gather information about the individual’s medical, sexual, and lifestyle history. This may include questions about sexual activity, reproductive history, medical conditions such as STIs, surgical history, medication use, lifestyle factors like smoking and exercise, and occupational exposure to toxins.
A physical examination of the reproductive organs checks for abnormalities such as changes in testicle size or texture, presence of masses or varicocele, penile structural issues like hypospadias, and signs of hormonal imbalance like gynecomastia, reduced body hair, or muscle tone.
The analysis of male infertility involves evaluating sperm parameters such as sperm count, motility, morphology, volume, and consistency to determine the underlying causes of the condition.
A semen sample is typically collected via masturbation after 2-5 days of sexual abstinence. Multiple samples may be analysed to ensure consistent results. Abnormal findings, such as low sperm count (oligospermia), poor motility (asthenozoospermia), or no sperm (azoospermia), may require further investigation.
Hormonal tests help identify imbalances that could be affecting sperm production. Common tests include measuring levels of:
Genetic tests are performed if there’s a suspicion of inherited conditions causing infertility, especially in cases of azoospermia or severe oligospermia. These tests may include:
Imaging tests provide detailed views of the reproductive organs to detect structural abnormalities or blockages. Common imaging techniques include:
These tests go beyond basic semen analysis to evaluate how well the sperm can fertilise an egg. Common tests include:
Treatment for male infertility varies depending on the cause, severity, and the couple’s fertility goals. Options include lifestyle changes, medications, surgery, and assisted reproductive technologies.
To boost fertility and improve sperm quality, men can make a few lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and reducing alcohol intake. A healthy diet with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can support sperm production. Regular exercise can enhance testosterone levels and reproductive health. Stress management through practices like yoga and meditation can help balance hormones. Avoid prolonged heat exposure and minimize contact with toxins like chemicals and pesticides.
Certain medical conditions causing infertility can be treated with medications, including hormonal therapies like Clomiphene Citrate and Gonadotropins, antibiotics for infections of the reproductive system, anti-inflammatory drugs for inflammation, and antioxidant supplements like vitamins C and E to improve sperm quality.
Surgical procedures are sometimes needed to correct anatomical issues or remove blockages in the male reproductive system. Common surgeries include varicocele repair for enlarged veins in the scrotum, vasectomy reversal to restore sperm flow, epididymal blockage repair to remove obstructions in the epididymis, and sperm retrieval techniques such as testicular sperm extraction or microsurgical epididymal sperm aspiration for cases of azoospermia.
ART (Assisted Reproductive Technology) is a treatment option recommended when other methods are unsuccessful. Techniques include In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) where sperm and egg are combined in a lab and implanted into the uterus, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI) where prepared sperm is placed directly into the uterus, and Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) where a single sperm is injected into an egg. These techniques are used for different levels of male infertility, with IUI best for mild cases, IVF for low sperm count or motility, and ICSI for severe cases like low count, poor motility, or DNA fragmentation.
For men with genetic causes of infertility, genetic counselling can help them understand the risks of passing on conditions to offspring. Techniques like preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) in IVF can screen embryos for genetic abnormalities.
If infertility is caused by anti-sperm antibodies, corticosteroids or ART methods like ICSI can bypass the immune response and facilitate fertilization.
The solution to male infertility varies depending on the root cause. In many instances, male infertility can indeed be treated successfully. For example, surgical correction of varicocele or treatment of infections with antibiotics can often lead to restored fertility. In cases where the condition is irreversible, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) or in vitro fertilisation (IVF) offer viable alternatives.
Male infertility is not always permanent. Conditions such as hormonal imbalances or infections are often treatable, leading to restored fertility. However, genetic issues or severe damage to the testicles may result in permanent infertility. Even in such cases, advanced reproductive technologies offer hope for parenthood.
Male infertility is a complex but often treatable condition. Whether infertility is temporary or permanent, advances in medical science and assisted reproductive technologies ensure that the dream of parenthood remains attainable.
By staying informed and seeking timely medical care, couples can overcome the hurdles of male infertility and embrace new possibilities for their future together.
A man may suspect infertility if he experiences difficulty conceiving after a year of unprotected intercourse, coupled with symptoms like low libido, erectile dysfunction, or abnormalities in semen analysis.
The main causes of male infertility are low sperm production, poor sperm quality, or blockages in the reproductive tract, often due to hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, or lifestyle influences.
Male infertility can be addressed through lifestyle changes, medical treatments, or assisted reproductive technologies, guided by a specialist’s evaluation.
Sources:
Spread the love, follow us on our social media channels