Male infertility is a factor half the time when couples are unable to have a baby.
The inability to have a child when you are ready to build your family is a life crisis. Couples undergo extensive medical testing during their quest to identify the reasons. People are surprised by the fact infertility is as common in men as women. The governing body in reproductive treatment is the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). According to ASRM, "For the one in eight couples experiencing difficulty getting pregnant male factor issues are involved in about half the cases." There are many reasons for male infertility.
Sperm
The majority of men who experience infertility have sperm deficiencies.
The biggest reason for failed male reproduction is deficiencies with sperm. Reduced number of sperm and problems with sperm mobility and shape are factors. The Mayo Clinic reports that "sperm must be properly shaped and able to move rapidly and accurately toward the egg for fertilization to occur." The amount of semen a man is able to produce also directly affects male fertility.
Physical Complications
A consultation with your doctor can help identify medical problems impacting fertility.
There are other medical problems that contribute to male infertility. Varicoceles is a common diagnosis causing male infertility. FertilityAuthority.com describes this condition as "enlarged varicose veins in the scrotum that prevent adequate blood flow or reverse blood flow." Surgery may be needed to correct this problem. Men who are unable to maintain an erection or have premature ejaculation, or retrograde ejaculation (semen released through the bladder instead of the penis) can also experience infertility issues.
Lifestyle
Intense exercise can compromise a man's fertility by reducing testosterone levels.
Healthy lifestyle choices result in a healthy man whose metabolism and sperm production and quality are more often in the normal range. Behaviors like smoking, excessive recreational drug, alcohol or steroid use can decrease sperm production. Excessive exercise can cause increased levels of adrenal steroid hormones producing below normal testosterone levels. Prolonged exposure to heat, from hot tubs, for example, negatively affect testicular function. Obesity can impact sperm quality. Poor nutrition can cause diabetes affecting blood circulation.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Proper treatment of some STDs can reverse infertility in men.
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are a frequently diagnosed reason for male infertility. Common STDs like genital herpes and syphilis result in sores on the penis and testicles which inhibit reproductive potential. Another well known STD, gonorrhea, infects testicles. This condition is called epididymitis. Once diagnosed, some STDs can be treated with medication and the infertility can be reversed.
Considerations
The combination of proper medical care and healthy lifestyle can help improve male fertility.
The environment also plays a role in male infertility. Prolonged contact with pesticides, radiation, paints and leads can directly affect testicular function. Men who decide to positively alter their lifestyles and get the appropriate medical treatment can improve their chances of overcoming infertility.
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