June is Men’s Health Month! Let’s take this opportunity to touch on a topic that may not be discussed often enough, male infertility. Infertility affects millions of people worldwide. Surprisingly to some, men have the issue in nearly half of those affected by infertility.1 A male is considered infertile when they have had unprotected sexual intercourse for over a year without resulting in pregnancy.2 Education not only increases awareness, but it can help men avoid those causes that might be preventable. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the most common contributors.
Top 10 Causes of Male Infertility:
- Sperm Problems: sperm can be immature, abnormally shaped, or unable to swim. In some cases, men may not produce enough or any sperm at all.
- Hormone Imbalances: imbalances that affect the hypothalamus or pituitary glands can cause diminished sperm production.
- Chronic Health Conditions: obesity, diabetes, kidney failure, cystic fibrosis, and many autoimmune disorders can have a negative effect on fertility. Taking certain medications for these conditions can also compromise sperm quality.
- Genetic Disorders: disorders such as Klinefelter Syndrome, Myotonic Dystrophy, and more can affect male fertility.
- Lifestyle Choices: lifestyle choices such as a poor diet, heavy tobacco use, extreme stress, heavy alcohol use, and illicit drug use can have a significant effect on male fertility. Steroid injections can also harm sperm production.
- Infections or Inflammatory Conditions: infections such as epididymitis, orchitis, and many sexually transmitted diseases can negatively affect sperm production.
- Environmental Factor: long-term exposure to environmental toxins, such as lead, chemotherapy, or pesticides can cause fertility concerns among men. Exposing the genitals to extreme or prolonged heat, spending long hours in a seated position, and wearing tight underwear can also diminish sperm quality and production.
- Varicocele: a varicocele is a large or swollen vein in the testicle. This condition can cause poor testicle development, low sperm production, and other problems.
- Advanced Age: the reproductive potential of men over the age of thirty-five drops sharply and continues to diminish as they age. Much of this can be attributed to an increase in functional problems.
- Testicular Trauma an injury or twisting of the testicles can cause fertility issues. Many times one of the tubes that carries semen can become impeded or blocked altogether.
Fortunately, there are many treatments to address most male infertility issues, such as surgery, hormone therapy, in-vitro fertilization, and artificial insemination. Lifestyle changes can also go a long way in the quest for increased or restored fertility. If you or your loved one has questions or concerns, contact Dr. Pinto and the experts at ReproMed Fertility Center today! We are here to help!
1. https://www.yalemedicine.org/
2. https://www.johnhopkinsmedcine.org/
Author: Dr. Anil Pinto is board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and the subspecialty of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Dr. Pinto has a special interest in the treatment of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), recurrent pregnancy loss, and advanced reproductive technologies, such as IVF. Dr. Pinto practices at ReproMed Fertility Center, which includes four convenient locations across Dallas and Tyler, Texas.