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What Causes Male Infertility? 10 Common Reasons Explained

           What Causes Male Infertility? 10 Common Reasons Explained 17 Dec

 When it comes to infertility, the focus often falls on women, but male infertility is just as significant and affects millions of men worldwide. In fact, about one in every five couples struggling with infertility may have a male factor contributing to the challenge. Let’s dive into the 10 most common causes of male infertility. Whether you’re seeking answers for yourself or someone close to you, understanding these causes is the first step toward finding solutions.

 

1. Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)
A low sperm count is one of the most common causes of male infertility. Normal sperm count ranges from 15 million sperm per milliliter to over 200 million. If a man has fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter, the chances of conception decrease significantly. Low sperm count can be caused by hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, or environmental exposures.
 
2. Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenozoospermia)
Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm to swim efficiently toward an egg. Poor sperm motility is another leading cause of male infertility. If the sperm cannot swim effectively, they may struggle to reach and fertilize the egg, reducing the chances of conception. This can result from lifestyle choices, infections, or structural issues in the reproductive organs.
 
3. Abnormal Sperm Morphology (Teratozoospermia)
Sperm morphology is the study of the size and shape of sperm. Sperm with abnormal morphology (irregular shape or size) can have difficulty reaching and penetrating an egg. This condition may be linked to genetic factors, environmental toxins, or certain health conditions such as diabetes.
 
4. Varicocele
A varicocele is the enlargement of veins within the scrotum, similar to varicose veins that occur in the legs. It can interfere with the temperature regulation of the testicles, causing sperm production to decrease. Varicoceles are found in about 15% of the general male population but can be responsible for up to 40% of cases of male infertility.
 
5. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction, the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse, can significantly impact fertility. While ED does not directly affect sperm quality, it hinders the physical ability to ejaculate during intercourse. Causes of ED include psychological factors, health conditions (e.g., diabetes), or side effects from medications.
 
6. Testicular Ailments (Infections or Injury)
Infections such as epididymitis, orchitis, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can impact sperm production and function. Testicular injuries or surgeries can also damage sperm-producing cells, leading to infertility. Conditions like mumps, if contracted after puberty, can also affect the testicles and lead to permanent infertility.
 
7. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones play a crucial role in sperm production. An imbalance in hormones like testosterone, thyroid hormone, or prolactin can disrupt the production of sperm. Conditions such as hypogonadism (low testosterone levels), obesity, or pituitary gland problems can lead to hormonal imbalances that affect male fertility.
 
8. Genetic Factors
Genetics can significantly influence male fertility. Conditions such as Klinefelter syndrome (an extra X chromosome), Y-chromosome microdeletions, or cystic fibrosis can lead to infertility. In some cases, genetic abnormalities affect the production or function of sperm, while in others, they affect the structure of the reproductive organs.
 
9. Lifestyle Factors
Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, recreational drug use, and poor diet can all decrease sperm quality. Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining overall health, but excessive exercise or heat exposure (such as frequent use of saunas or hot tubs) may negatively impact sperm production.
 
10. Environmental and Occupational Factors
Exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals, such as pesticides, heavy metals, or industrial chemicals, can impair sperm production. Men working in occupations involving exposure to toxic substances, such as welding or chemical manufacturing, may have a higher risk of infertility. Similarly, radiation and prolonged exposure to high temperatures can also decrease sperm count and quality.
 
Early intervention, lifestyle changes, and medical treatments are often effective in overcoming male infertility. For those looking for expert care, Prashanth IVF offers the best treatment options for male fertility, with a team of specialists dedicated to providing personalized, cutting-edge solutions.
 

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