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21 Aug Causes of Male Infertility – Can it be Cured in Patna?
Male infertility refers to any health condition in men that reduces the likelihood of conceiving in their female partner.
Around 1 in 7, couples face the challenge of infertility, where conception remains elusive despite a year of unprotected intercourse.
Surprisingly, male infertility contributes to this issue in nearly half of these cases. Moreover, the culprits behind male infertility include insufficient sperm production, abnormal sperm function, and blockages hindering sperm delivery.
Now, various factors can contribute to this problem. Today, in this blog we will take an insightful look at the causes of male infertility, and corrective treatments for the same.
Let’s get started.
How Common is Male Infertility?
Ever wondered how common male infertility is? Well, it’s estimated that around 15% of men face infertility issues.
Surprisingly, in about 1 in 5 cases where couples struggle to conceive, it’s the male partner who holds the key. However, the numbers presented are not hardened facts and can vary depending on the region.
Therefore, while male infertility isn’t uncommon, remember, there’s often a silver lining- Curable treatments!
Symptoms of Male Infertility
When the journey to parenthood hits roadblocks, it’s crucial to understand the male infertility symptoms.
While the primary indicator is the inability to conceive, there are subtle signs that could signal an underlying issue; these include:
- Changes in Sexual Function: Difficulty with ejaculation, reduced sexual desire, or trouble maintaining an erection could be red flags. These issues might be linked to hormonal imbalances or inherited disorders affecting fertility.
- Testicular Changes: Be attentive to any discomfort, swelling, or lumps in the testicle area. These physical changes could indicate dilated veins, hormonal imbalances, or other underlying concerns affecting sperm production.
- Recurrent respiratory infections: If you find yourself grappling with recurring respiratory infections without an apparent cause, it could be related to a compromised immune system, potentially affecting reproductive health.
- Unexpected Physical Changes: Watch out for signs like abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia), decreased facial or body hair, or other indications of hormonal or chromosomal abnormalities that might be contributing to fertility issues.
- Sperm Count Abnormalities: A sperm count lower than the norm (fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen or less than 39 million per ejaculate) is a key indicator of male infertility.
This could be due to various factors, such as hormonal imbalances or obstructed sperm passages.
Remember, while these symptoms can hint at male infertility, only a doctor can offer accurate insights.
In fact, a conversational chat with the Best Sexologist Doctor in Patna will put you on the right path.
It’s about taking this step towards understanding and addressing the issue that will help you come closer to the dream of parenthood!
You can also read about >>> How to increase sexual stamina in men!
What are the Causes of Male Infertility?
Typically, difficulties with spermatogenesis result in male infertility. However, there are a number of other underlying reasons that can cause infertility in men. Some of the main causes include:
- Medical Issues
- Environmental Factors
- Health, lifestyle, and other factors
Medical Issues
Several health conditions and medical treatments can contribute to male fertility issues; these include:
Varicocele – A Common Culprit
A common yet reversible cause of male infertility is varicocele, a condition characterized by swollen veins in the testicles.
While the precise link between varicoceles and infertility remains a puzzle, irregular blood flow seems to be a factor. This anomaly diminishes the quantity and quality of sperm, impairing the chances of conception.
Infections and Their Unwanted Effects
Infections such as epididymitis, orchitis, and sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea and HIV can wreak havoc on sperm production and quality.
Some infections lead to permanent damage, but hope isn’t lost; in most cases, sperm retrieval is still possible.
Ejaculation Woes and Immunological Intruders
Retrograde ejaculation, where semen enters the bladder during orgasm, is a result of various health conditions such as diabetes, spinal injuries, medications, or bladder-related surgeries.
Another hurdle can be antibodies targeting sperm as invaders, an immune response gone awry that hampers fertility.
Tumors and Undescended Testicles
The ominous presence of tumors, malignant or benign, can directly affect reproductive organs. Moreover, undescended testicles during fetal development increase the risk of decreased fertility later in life.
The Complex Web of Hormonal Harmony
Hormones orchestrate much of our bodily functions, including fertility.
Testicular disorders and imbalances in other hormonal systems, like the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, can disrupt the delicate dance of fertility hormones, leading to infertility.
Navigating Tubular Terrain
Numerous tubes transport sperm and blockages can occur anywhere along this intricate route.
Trauma, prior infections, or genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis might cause blockages that hinder the sperm’s journey to meet the egg.
Unveiling Genetic Veils
Genetic disorders like Klinefelter’s syndrome and Kallmann’s syndrome can shroud male reproductive development. Abnormalities stemming from these conditions can compromise fertility.
Intimacy Hurdles and Unseen Influences
Issues with sexual intercourse, ranging from erectile dysfunction to psychological barriers, can disrupt conception.
Surprisingly, celiac disease, triggered by gluten sensitivity, may also contribute to male infertility.
Medications and Surgical Shadows
Certain medications and prior surgeries, such as vasectomy, prostate procedures, or cancer treatments, can hamper sperm production and ejaculation, casting shadows over the path to fatherhood.
Environmental Factors
Overexposure to several environmental factors, including heat, pollutants, and chemicals, may impair sperm function or production. Some specific factors include:
- Industrial Chemicals: Prolonged exposure to chemicals like pesticides, solvents, and paints can lead to reduced sperm counts, affecting fertility.
- Heavy Metal Exposure: Contact with heavy metals such as lead can also contribute to male infertility.
- Radiation and X-rays: High levels of radiation exposure can permanently decrease sperm production, impacting fertility.
- Testicular Overheating: Elevated testicular temperature from saunas, hot tubs, tight clothing, or prolonged laptop use may temporarily reduce sperm production.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Sitting for long periods or using laptops extensively might slightly lower scrotal temperature, affecting sperm production. However, as the research on the relationship between elevated temperature and infertility is ongoing, the studies are limited and inconclusive.
Health, lifestyle, and other factors
Male infertility can stem from a variety of sources, often tied to health, lifestyle choices, and other influential factors. The key contributors include:
- Drug Usage: Certain substances like anabolic steroids, used for muscle enhancement, can shrink testicles and hinder sperm production. Cocaine or marijuana use can also momentarily diminish sperm count and quality.
- Alcohol Consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can lower testosterone levels, causing erectile difficulties and reduced sperm production. Additionally, alcohol-induced liver ailments might pose fertility challenges.
- Tobacco Impact: Smoking tobacco can lead to a decreased sperm count compared to non-smokers. Even exposure to secondhand smoke might have unfavorable effects on male fertility.
- Weight Matters: Obesity holds the potential to impair fertility through multiple pathways. It can directly impact sperm health and disrupt hormone balance, thereby lowering male fertility.
Diagnosis of Male Infertility
When facing fertility concerns, the Best Sexologist Doctor in Patna will likely request a semen analysis or blood test to check hormones.
Exploring possible infections, an ultrasound might follow, examining the testicular structure. Occasionally, a testicular biopsy could be required for precise diagnosis.
Male infertility goes beyond conception challenges; it’s linked to potential health issues like diabetes, heart problems, and even higher mortality rates.
While not a certainty, these connections underscore the importance of proactive healthcare.
If a year of trying to conceive has yielded no results, it is best to seek medical advice sooner rather than later. In fact, sexologist in Patna proves great assistance in these scenarios.
Remember, prioritize your journey to parenthood with early care and open communication.
FAQs
#1. What are the causes of female infertility?
Ans: Some of the common causes of female infertility include, Ovulation Disorders, Fallopian Tube Issues, Uterine Abnormalities, Endometriosis, Age, and more.
#2. What are 4 causes of male infertility?
Ans. Male infertility can be caused due to a number of reasons, however, it can be classified into broader categories which include:
- Medical Issues
- Environmental Factors
- Health, lifestyle
- Mental issues
#3. Can Male Infertility be Cured?
Ans. Causes of Male Infertility may sometimes be treated medically or surgically, but in most instances, assisted reproductive technology (ART; for instance, in vitro fertilization, or “IVF”) is the preferred method.
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