Various causes are blamed for male infertility. Some can be accurately determined and effectively treated. Unfortunately, in a large proportion of male infertility, the cause cannot be proven (Idiopathic).
Male anomalies are the sole cause of infertility in about 20% of infertile couples. They are a significant contributing factor in another 20-40%.
The list of known causes is long but can be divided into four main categories:
- Hypothalamic-pituitary disorders (1-2%).
- Primary conditions of the testis (30-40%)
- Sperm transport disorders (10-20%)
- Unknown (40-50%)
Are there symptoms that may indicate male infertility?
- Increase or decrease in body weight
- Unclear swelling of the testicles, changes in size and consistency of the testicles
- Testicular pain
- Pain during urination
- Purulent discharge from the penis
- Erection and/or ejaculation problems.
- Change in the shape of the penis/ curvatures.
What examinations should be performed?
Medical history. Questions should be about the patient’s medical history, lifestyle, and any medication that was taken.
Examination of the external genital organs. Palpation of the testicles, epididymis, and examination of the spermatic cord.
Spermiogram. It assesses the volume of ejaculation, motility, concentration, and normal forms of sperm. This examination is often the first indication of the possible cause of male infertility.
Hormone analysis. If the spermiogram shows abnormalities, the male sex hormones are quantitatively analyzed. These are responsible for the process of sperm production.
Sometimes the indication for tissue sampling (biopsy) from the testis or genetic testing is given.
How can male infertility be treated?
Proper diagnosis and targeted treatment can help many infertile men achieve natural conception with their partners.
Mild but severe sperm abnormalities can be corrected by treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI). Modern assisted reproductive technologies can still lead to success in more severe cases. These treatments are based on selecting the best possible sperm to make fertilization of the eggs efficient.
How to prevent male infertility?
- A balanced diet, as well as plenty of exercise and sports, is crucial. Avoid overweight and obesity (obesity), and underweight because weight disorders are a risk for infertility. Seek professional help in time.
- In case of symptoms related to inflammation, infections, and other diseases should be treated in time.
- Thyroid and metabolic disorders, such as diabetes mellitus, should be adjusted as best as possible and controlled regularly.
- Refrain from smoking and the consumption of alcohol. If abstinence does not seem likely, try to reduce both. More potent drugs should be avoided altogether.
- Reduce stress. Autogenic training, muscle relaxation exercises, yoga, or similar can reduce stress in everyday life.
- Safe sex. Protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as chlamydia infection, as STDs can reduce fertility in both partners. Always get medical treatment for any illness (both partners).
- Ensure you have sufficient vaccination protection, especially for classic childhood disease mumps.
Would you like to have more information?
If you want a fertility test done or are unsure which treatment is best for you, please do not hesitate to contact us.
