We have learned through data that approximately 30% of infertility cases result are male alone fertility related and in another 20% both the man and woman present issues relating to infertility. The male factor is at least partly responsible in about 50% of couples diagnosed with infertility.
The most common causes of male infertility include abnormalities in sperm production, function or delivery, lifestyle, overall health and environmental exposure.
Sperm Abnormality: Morphology & Motility
Sperm must have the proper shape (morphology) and must be able to move toward the egg properly (motility). If either or both of these requirements are impaired, the sperm will not be able to reach and fertilize an egg. A sperm concentration of below 10 million per milliliter of semen accounts for a low sperm count.
The most common causes of male infertility include abnormalities in sperm production, function or delivery, lifestyle, overall health and environmental exposure.
Testicular Problems
Varicocele is a varicose vein in the scrotum that prevents sperm from developing properly and can be treated with surgery. Testicles that fail to descend from the abdomen into the scrotum during fetal development causes a higher internal body temperature and sperm production can be affected. Additional testicular problems include: blocked ejaculatory ducts and or a lack of vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm from the testicle through the penis). Ejaculatory problems can include retrograde ejaculation—when semen enters the bladder during orgasm rather than through the penis. This can be caused by diabetes, prostate or urinary issues and by some medications.
Hormone Deficiency
Male Hypogonadism is the result of an abnormal hypothalamus or pituitary gland in the brain. Since these produce hormones that control the testicles and sperm production, infertility can be affected.
Hypospadias
As a result of a birth defect, the urinary opening is located underneath the penis. If not corrected with surgery, this can reduce the chance of the sperm reaching the cervix and ultimately the egg.
Overall Health
Stress and emotional stress can affect optimal sperm production. General nutritional health and weight can contribute to infertilities. Diets deficient in nutrients important to sperm production such as vitamin C, zinc and folic acid can reduce the chances of healthy sperm. Obesity may also result in lower sperm production.
Cancer
Cancer and the treatment of cancer can both cause difficulties with fertility. Depending on the type of cancer and type of treatment, there is a high risk of infertility. It is important to consider fertility preservation upon receiving a cancer diagnosis.
Lifestyle Factors
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as Chlamydia, Syphilis and gonorrhea, can cause a problem with male infertility, especially with repeated occurrences. The consistent abuse of alcohol and recreational drugs or a dependency on either or both can contribute to infertility. Prescription medications can cause various degrees of infertility issues, so it’s best to consult your prescribing physician prior to starting a medication. Anabolic steroids can affect hormone production and reduce the quality of sperm production. Smoking directly affects the production of sperm. Men who smoke have a lower sperm count than non-smokers.
Environmental Factors
Repeated or prolonged exposure to certain environmental toxins can reduce sperm count. Environmental exposure can include pesticides, herbicides, insecticides can all alter the hormones required for optimal sperm production.
