It is important to have a good understanding of male infertility because it is prevalent among couples who are intending to conceive. Still, male factors are investigated less frequently, even though male infertility is a cause of 40–50% of fertility problems. In this article, we explore the cause that affects male fertility.
Top Factors Causing Male Infertility
Biological Factors
- Hormonal Imbalances:- The male reproductive system is hormonally dependent and is, therefore, fueled by testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). A problem with these hormones means the creation and control of sperm can be disrupted, and this can lead to low sperm production or poor sperm quality. Pathologies like hypogonadism, in which the body produces limited testosterone levels, may affect fertility in a huge way.
- Genetic Disorders:- It is of great significance to understand that genetic issues contribute significantly to male infertility. Hydrocele, which is the swelling of the scrotum due to accumulation of fluid, can affect fertility in some situations; for example, men with Klinefelter syndrome, which results from an extra X chromosome and leads to decreased testosterone levels as well as impaired sperm quality. Other genetic abnormalities, including Y chromosome microdeletions, can also lead to low sperm concentration or even azoospermia.
Medical Conditions
- Varicocele:- It was established that varicocele is one of the main reasons affecting male fertility. It is a condition where veins that are within the scrotum are dilated, which can cause the scrotum to heat and affect sperm. Scholars estimate that varicocele exists in 15% of the male global population; however, the percentage increases to 40% where male infertility is a factor.
- Infections:- Some infections affect the health of sperm and therefore fertility. Genital chlamydia and gonorrhoea, for example, are bacterial STIs that cause inflammation and scarring in the female reproductive tract. Other infections that cause impaired sperm transport include infections of the epididymis, which is a tubing urethral inflammation, making them other causes of infertility.
Lifestyle Factors
- Substance Abuse:- Drugs and alcohol are some of the substances that are popular among males and affect fertility. Excessive drinking fosters hormonal imbalances and causes the testosterone levels in males to drop. As well, legal substances such as marijuana and anabolic steroids can reduce sperm production and its quality.
- Obesity:- More people are suffering from obesity, which is one of the factors affecting male fertility. Obesity has been found to have an impact on hormonal status, and male fertility causing poor sperm quality. However, obesity leads to other illnesses that may affect fertility progress, such as diabetes and metabolic syndrome.
Environmental Factors
- Exposure to Toxins:- There are many environmental agents to which men are exposed that have negative impacts on fertility. Pesticides, heavy metals, and industrial chemicals have been known to cause depression in sperm count and quality. Further, heat in any form (as in hot water baths or laptops directly placed on laps) can negatively affect testicular functions.
- Radiation and Chemotherapy:- It is a known fact that radiation, or chemotherapy, which can be given to men diagnosed with cancer, can lead to infertility. These treatments can cause harm to germ cells in the testes, resulting in temporary or permanent sterility depending on the type or period of treatment offered.
Psychological Factors
Reproductive health cannot be fully discussed without considering the participants’ mental health. Hormonal changes, which may result from stress, anxiety, and depression, also affect conception since the level of hormones in our body determines fertility. Counselling remains vital for any man who is experiencing difficulties relating to infertility.
Conclusion
Male infertility is a complex condition resulting from biological, medical, lifestyle, environmental, and psychological factors. The knowledge of these causes is very important for the diagnosis and likely treatment. Infertility is a challenge that should be handled by professionals for those couples experiencing it.
Mannat Fertility Clinic has essential treatments for males suffering from infertility issues. For over a decade now, Mannat Fertility Clinic has a specialised team that has assembled well-trained fertility specialists to onset compassionate care and offer new strategies to treat the needful couples who are aspiring to become parents. If you have one or multiple issues with fertility, feel free to turn to Mannat Fertility Clinic, where experts will offer you customised advice and assistance.
