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Understanding male infertility

What causes male infertility?

Male infertility can be caused by various factors that affect sperm production, quality, or delivery. Some common causes include:
  • Low Sperm Count:
This means there aren’t enough sperm in the semen to fertilize an egg. It can happen due to hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, or certain medical conditions.
  • Poor Sperm Quality:
Even if there are enough sperm, they might not be shaped correctly or move the way they should. This can make it harder for them to reach and fertilize an egg.
  • Varicocele:
This is when the veins inside the scrotum are enlarged. It can overheat the testicles, which can affect sperm production.
  • Blockages:
Sometimes, there are blockages in the tubes that carry sperm, preventing them from getting out during ejaculation.
  • Hormonal Issues:
Problems with hormone levels can affect sperm production. For example, low levels of testosterone can lead to reduced sperm production.
  • Lifestyle Factors:
Certain lifestyle choices, like smoking, excessive drinking, drug use, or being overweight, can affect sperm production and quality.
  • Medical Conditions:
Conditions like diabetes, infections, or injuries to the testicles can affect fertility.
  • Genetic Factors:
Some genetic conditions can affect sperm production or quality, making it harder to conceive.  

How male infertility can be treated:

Male infertility can be treated depending on the underlying cause. Here are some common treatments:
  • Medications:
If infertility is caused by hormonal imbalances or certain medical conditions, medications can help correct these issues.
  • Surgery:
In cases where there are blockages or structural problems preventing sperm from being ejaculated, surgery may be necessary to correct these issues.
  • Lifestyle Changes:
Making healthy lifestyle changes can improve fertility. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and managing stress.
  • Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART):
If other treatments are unsuccessful, couples may consider ART options such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF). In these procedures, sperm is collected and prepared in a lab before being directly inserted into the female partner’s reproductive tract or used to fertilize an egg outside the body.
  • Sperm Retrieval:
In cases where there are no sperm in the ejaculate due to blockages or other issues, sperm can be retrieved directly from the testicles or epididymis through procedures like testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA).
  • Counseling:
Dealing with infertility can be emotionally challenging for both partners. Counseling or support groups can provide emotional support, guidance, and coping strategies to help couples navigate this journey together.

How common is male infertility?

Male infertility is a significant issue in India, impacting a considerable number of couples who are trying to conceive. Studies suggest that approximately 12% to 18% of couples seeking fertility treatments in the country are affected by male infertility. Factors such as socioeconomic status, lifestyle choices, and access to healthcare can influence the prevalence of male infertility in different regions of India, underscoring the need for targeted interventions and awareness campaigns to support couples facing fertility challenges.
Despite the cultural and social stigmas surrounding infertility in India, there is a growing recognition of the importance of addressing male reproductive health and seeking appropriate medical assistance. Through concerted efforts to improve diagnosis, treatment, and support for male infertility, India can help more couples achieve their dreams of starting or expanding their families.
In EVA, there is a team of andrologist, sexologist and urologist , who helps a man to become father.