Male infertility is a growing problem. According to research, male infertility is the primary cause of 30% of all infertility cases. Male factor infertility can be caused by sperm production problems or blockages around sperm delivery. While conception is a complicated process, infertility does not automatically mean you would not be able to have your child with your partner.
Fortunately, technology has advanced, and currently, multiple male infertility treatment options exist. This article will explore the most common causes of male infertility, their test, diagnosis and treatment options.
3 most common causes of male infertility
Male infertility can be caused by numerous health and environmental issues; let’s have a look:
Medical issues
Medical issues that can cause male infertility are-
Varicocele: It is swelling of the veins which drain the testicle. While the exact reason for varicocele is unknown, it is the most common reversible cause of male infertility. Varicocele leads to reduced sperm production and degradation of sperm quality.
Infection: Certain infections like epididymitis or orchitis (inflammation of testicles) can lead to reduced sperm production or blockages in the sperm’s path. Moreover, sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea or HIV can also cause sperm issues.
Retrograde ejaculation: This is caused when the semen reaches the bladder during ejaculation instead of coming out of the tip of a penis. Diabetes, spinal injuries, bladder surgeries and more can cause retrograde ejaculation.
Antibodies: Some antibodies can attack sperm by misidentifying them as microbes or harmful substances and eliminating them.
Tumors: Cancers or non-malignant tumors as they affect glands that produce reproductive hormones, like the pituitary glands. In some cases, tumor treatments like chemotherapy can also adversely impact the male reproductive system.
Hormone imbalances: Low testosterone and other hormonal imbalances can cause male infertility.
Celiac disease: This is a digestive disorder due to sensitivity to a protein found in wheat known as gluten. This is a reversible problem, and reproductive health can be boosted by adopting a gluten-free diet.
Environmental causes
Increased exposure to environmental elements like heat or toxins can also impact male fertility. These causes include-
Chemical toxins: Overexposure to pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals can adversely impact sperm production.
Heavy metal exposure can also be a cause of male infertility.
Heat: Overheating of the testicles can impair sperm function. Sitting in hot saunas or wearing tight clothing for extended periods can lead to male infertility.
Lifestyle causes
Lifestyle choices like drinking too much alcohol, consuming tobacco, drug use and obesity can be major causes of male infertility. These choices can cause low testosterone, degradation in the quantity and quality of sperm production and blockages in the sperm path.
Test and diagnosis of male infertility
Infertility itself is the biggest symptom. However, it is advisable to seek professional help when facing such issues, as they will run tests to determine the plausible causes of infertility. Professionals can help reverse infertility if it is due to reversible causes. On the other hand, if infertility is due to irreversible causes, they can help you by providing alternate men infertility treatment options.
Treatment of male infertility
With modern medicine, there are now multiple ways to treat male infertility depending on the cause, such as-
Lifestyle changes
Individuals can change habits and adopt a healthier lifestyle to boost reproductive health. One can stop drinking, smoking and consuming drugs and maintain body weight.
Medication and surgeries
Medication can be given as hormone therapy to boost sperm production.
Surgeries, namely- Vasoepididymostomy, wherein blockages around the vas deferens are removed or Sperm Retrieval, in which a biopsy of the testicle is done to find sperm.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection
This technique has greatly helped couples dealing with male infertility. Intracytoplasmic sperm injections are a procedure in which an individual sperm can be injected into the female egg to conceive a child.
Ivf treatment
In Vitro fertilization (IVF) is an excellent treatment option. In this treatment, the ovaries are first stimulated with injectable medications to produce multiple eggs. When ready, the eggs are collected for a procedure in which fertilization is done by exposing them to sperm in a culture dish. Later, the fertilized egg is placed in the uterus with a catheter.
IVF treatment has changed the landscape for couples dealing with infertility as it is a very successful option for them. IVF treatment cost depends on multiple factors; it is advisable to consult professionals before seeking it.
Conclusion
Male infertility is caused by three most common factors- health, environmental and lifestyle issues. While some causes of infertility are reversible, like low sperm production due to smoking, others may need advanced treatment such as surgeries or IVF.
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