Common Causes of Male Infertility and How to Address Them

Infertility can be an emotional and challenging journey for many couples, and it’s important to recognise that male factors play a significant role in nearly half of all infertility cases. The good news is that, with modern advancements and the right approach, there is hope for those seeking to build a family. Understanding the causes of male infertility and the solutions available can help couples take the first step toward their dream of parenthood.

Common Causes of Male Infertility

Male infertility can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle habits. Below, we outline the most common reasons for male infertility:

Low Sperm Count

A low sperm count means fewer sperm are available to fertilise an egg. This is one of the main reasons for male infertility.  Factors such as hormonal imbalances, genetic conditions, infections or lifestyle habits like smoking and poor diet can contribute to low sperm production.

Poor Sperm Motility

Even when sperm count is adequate, if the sperm cannot swim properly, reaching and fertilising the egg becomes difficult. Reduced sperm motility may result from infections, previous injuries or even exposure to toxins.

Abnormal Sperm Morphology

The shape of sperm also matters. Sperm with irregular shapes, such as those with double tails or misshapen heads, may struggle to penetrate the egg. This issue is commonly referred to as abnormal sperm morphology and can occur due to genetic or environmental factors.

Varicocele

Varicocele refers to enlarged veins within the scrotum, which can raise the temperature around the testicles. Elevated temperature can interfere with sperm production and quality, leading to infertility. Varicocele is one of the most treatable conditions causing male infertility.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormones like testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone (LH) play a critical role in sperm production. Imbalances in these hormones due to conditions like hypogonadism can impact fertility.

Genetic Disorders

Certain genetic conditions, such as Klinefelter syndrome, can affect sperm development and overall fertility. These conditions may lead to either a complete lack of sperm or a significant reduction in their quality or quantity.  Additionally, Y chromosome microdeletions can disrupt genes essential for sperm production, further contributing to male infertility.

Infections

Infections such as mumps or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can lead to scarring or blockages in the reproductive tract, disrupting sperm transport and lowering the chances of fertilization. Additionally, urinary tract infections can trigger oxidative stress, which may negatively impact sperm DNA integrity, resulting in a higher DNA fragmentation index (DFI).

Lifestyle Factors

Unhealthy lifestyle choices are significant contributors to male infertility. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use and obesity are known to harm sperm production and quality. Additionally, stress and lack of sleep can exacerbate these issues.

Exposure to Environmental Toxins

Regular exposure to pesticides, heavy metals and radiation can have harmful effects on sperm health. Those working in industries with high exposure to such toxins are at higher risk.

Medical Treatments

Some treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy and certain medications, can impair sperm production temporarily or permanently. Men undergoing these treatments should consult a doctor about fertility preservation options.

Addressing Male Infertility

Fortunately, many causes of male infertility can be treated or managed with the right approach. Below are some of the key solutions available:

Lifestyle Modifications

A healthy lifestyle is the foundation of good reproductive health. Adopting a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly improve sperm quality. Stress management through meditation or counselling can also help.

Medical Treatments

Medical interventions offer effective solutions for addressing infertility issues. Treatments such as hormonal therapy can help correct imbalances, while antibiotics are used to combat infections. In certain cases, medications may improve sperm count and motility, enhancing fertility. Additionally, antioxidants play a crucial role in reducing oxidative stress, which can impact sperm DNA integrity. Advanced diagnostics, like a male infertility test, provide valuable insights, enabling targeted treatments to improve fertility outcomes.

Surgical Interventions

Surgical procedures are effective in resolving structural issues like varicocele or blockages in the reproductive tract. Varicocele repair is a common procedure that often leads to improved sperm quality and increased fertility rates.

Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

For couples who cannot conceive naturally, ART methods offer hope. Techniques like in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can assist by directly introducing sperm to the egg in a controlled environment. 

Additionally, advanced sperm selection techniques, such as magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS), microfluidics or physiological intracytoplasmic sperm injection (PICSI), can help identify and use healthier sperm with better DNA integrity. When combined with ART, these methods enhance the chances of successful fertilization and implantation, improving overall pregnancy outcomes.

Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing

Assessing sperm DNA integrity is an advanced diagnostic method that can uncover hidden issues affecting fertility. High levels of DNA fragmentation in sperm can lead to failed pregnancies or difficulty in conception.

At Andrology Center in Coimbatore, we take pride in being the only authorised lab in India to perform the Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay (SCSA®) test. This state-of-the-art test provides a detailed analysis of sperm DNA quality, offering valuable insights into male fertility. With this information, tailored treatments can significantly improve outcomes for couples.

Conclusion

Infertility can feel overwhelming, but understanding the common causes of male infertility can make all the difference. From lifestyle adjustments to advanced medical interventions, there are numerous ways to address the problem. By taking proactive steps such as improving overall health, seeking medical advice and utilising cutting-edge diagnostics like the SCSA® test, many men can overcome fertility challenges.

At Andrology Center, besides the manual and AI-assisted semen analysis and the DFI  (DNA Fragmentation Index) test using the SCSA® method, we also offer serology and hormone testing.  Our reports are standardised, which help fertility specialists decide on the best method of treatment.  Remember, infertility is not the end – it’s just a step along the way to a brighter future.

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