Top 10 Leading Factors Contributing to Male Infertility

For couples who cannot conceive, infertility might be an issue. Infertility can affect both men and women. According to Australia’s Better Health Channel, around 30%of infertility issues originate with the man. Meanwhile, an article published by Newcastle University says that 7%of men have infertility problems, and 50% of fertility problems among couples are due to male infertility.  

Here are the top 10 leading factors contributing to male infertility: 

Sperm abnormalities 

The sperm is the male reproductive cell. This means that any abnormality affecting the sperm can lead to male infertility. Sperm abnormalities include: 

• Low sperm count – Low sperm count means that the sperm concentration in the semen is below normal. A lower-than-normal sperm count decreases the chances of fertilizing an egg. 
• Poor sperm motility – This happens when less than 40% of the sperm move efficiently.  As a result, the sperm might not reach the egg it needs to fertilize. 

Hormonal imbalances 

Hormones like testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) contribute to the development of the testicles and sperm production. A hormonal imbalance can affect the production of these hormones and decrease your fertility rate. 

Infections 

Infections from sexually certain diseases, like mumps, can damage your reproductive system and lead to infertility. Mumps can cause orchitis or the inflammation of the testicles. According to an article published by the UK’s National Health Service, 10% of men experience a drop in their sperm count due to testicular shrinkage caused by orchitis. Sexually Transmitted Infections or STIs can also cause male infertility. STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and HIV can lead to infertility.   

Genetics 

Genetic disorders can cause male infertility by compromising the production of healthy sperm. Some genetic disorders also prevent the sperm’s ability to reach the egg it needs to fertilize. Examples of these genetic disorders include Klinefelter syndrome, Noonan syndrome, and Y chromosome microdeletions. 

• Klinefelter Syndrome — Extra X chromosome causes lower testosterone and fewer sperm. 
• Noonan Syndrome —- Genetic disorder causing short stature and possible fertility issues. 
• Y Chromosome Microdeletions — Missing parts on the Y chromosome reduce sperm production significantly. 

Undescended testicles 

Before birth, the testicles move down into its proper place in the scrotum. This ensures that the testicles are in a place with a low temperature that’s optimal for sperm production. An undescended testicle is one that stays up in the body. When this happens, it gets exposed to higher temperatures and will not produce sperm, thus resulting in infertility issues. Aside from undescended testicles, certain conditions can cause the overheating of the testicles, such as sitting for long periods of time and wearing tight clothing. 

Environmental factors 

One’s environment can affect a male’s ability to produce sperm. Exposure to toxins such as pesticides and heavy metals can result in low sperm production and infertility. Radiation exposure can lead to low sperm count and decreased sperm motility. It can also destroy sperm cells and the stem cells that make sperm. 

Lifestyle factors 

An unhealthy lifestyle can lead to male infertility. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can lower a man’s sperm count and decrease motility. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity. Obesity affects fertility by inhibiting testosterone production which affects sperm concentration. This highlights the importance of healthy lifestyle choices to ensure optimum reproductive health. 

Testicular trauma 

Injuries to the testicles and the male reproductive system can lead to reduced sperm production and infertility. Testicular trauma appears in several forms. It can be a contusion or a bruising of the testicles. It can be a testicular torsion or a twisting of the spermatic cord inside the testicles. Trauma can also come in the form of degloving or the removal of the skin covering the testicles. Injuries can result in the development of scar tissue which results in the reduction of sperm production. 

Medical treatment 

Male infertility can be caused by certain medical treatments. Some ulcer and arthritis drugs can impair sperm production. Chemotherapy for cancer patients can also lead to male infertility. Certain surgeries, like vasectomy, testicular surgeries, and prostate surgeries, can result in the absence of sperm in the ejaculate. 

Sexual dysfunctions 

Sexual dysfunctions such as premature ejaculation (PE) and erectile dysfunction (ED) can indirectly contribute to male infertility. They can make conception more challenging because they make the delivery of sperm more difficult. However, these sexual dysfunctions are not permanent. With the help of various treatments, like medications, therapies, and lifestyle changes, erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation are curable. 

If you’re suffering from poor bedroom performance due to PE and ED, reach out to Men’s Health Clinic (MHC). MHC provides customised treatment plans for male sexual dysfunctions based on your health profile (medical conditions, lifestyle, preferences, and needs). We partner with leading health professionals like specialists, sex therapists, creative psychologists, physiotherapists, and nutritionists who can address the underlying causes of your ED and PE. 

Conclusion 

There are many factors contributing to male infertility. It can be because of medical treatment, trauma, infections, or sexual dysfunctions. These factors can make starting a family more difficult. If you believe that you have fertility issues because of one or more of the factors above, seek professional help immediately. A doctor can properly diagnose and develop a treatment plan for you. If you’re dealing with sexual dysfunctions like premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction, don’t hesitate to book a FREE consultation with MHC today.