Male Infertility
Causes of Male Infertility
1. Sperm Abnormalities
- Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia): Insufficient sperm production reduces the chances of fertilization.
- Abnormal Sperm Morphology (Teratozoospermia): Irregularly shaped sperm may not fertilize an egg properly.
2. Hormonal Imbalances
- Low testosterone levels (hypogonadism) affect sperm production.
- Disorders of the pituitary gland can disrupt hormone regulation.
3. Medical Conditions and Genetic Disorders
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Chlamydia, gonorrhea, or HIV can damage reproductive organs.
- Varicocele: Enlarged veins in the scrotum raise testicular temperature, impairing sperm production.
Male Infertility Treatment
Male infertility is the inability to conceive a child due to issues related to sperm production, quality, or delivery. It accounts for nearly 40-50% of infertility cases in couples and can result from various medical, genetic, lifestyle, or environmental factors. Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for effective treatment and improving fertility outcomes.
Treatment and Management of Male Infertility
1. Lifestyle Modifications
- Healthy Diet: A diet rich in antioxidants, zinc, and folic acid supports sperm health.
- Avoiding Smoking, Alcohol, and Drugs: Reduces sperm damage.
2. Medical and Hormonal Treatments
- Hormone Therapy: Restores hormonal balance for better sperm production.
- Antibiotics: Treat infections affecting sperm health.
- Medications for Erectile Dysfunction: Improve sperm delivery if necessary.
Diagnosis of Male Infertility
A fertility specialist may recommend:
- Semen Analysis: Evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology.
- Hormone Testing: Checks testosterone, FSH, LH, and prolactin levels.
- Scrotal Ultrasound: Detects structural issues like varicocele or blockages.
- Genetic Testing: Identifies chromosomal abnormalities affecting fertility.