Understanding Male Fertility

Fertility is an issue that has been a matter of importance since the creation of mankind. Oftentimes when one thinks fertility, a woman comes to mind even though male fertility is of equal importance in reproduction. For conception to occur, a sperm must meet with an egg. But this is not always as simple as it sounds as certain factors such as poor sperm quality may hinder this process. Very few men may be concerned with the state of their fertility or even the treatment options available. 

Male infertility is the inability of a male to impregnate a woman for a minimum of a year of regular unprotected sex. Some symptoms of male infertility may include swelling or discomfort in the testicular region as well as sexual dysfunction. Let's look at some of the causes of male infertility; often characterized by challenges in sperm production or low sperm quality which hinders conception.

Common Causes of Male Infertility 

Infertility is defined as the inability of a couple who have unprotected sex frequently for more than a year to have children. Male infertility accounts for 50% of all fertility cases according to Yale Medicine’s male fertility  study. Several factors can affect a man’s fertility such as age, lifestyle choices, use of drugs, and medical conditions. Usually, the prime suspect for male infertility is poor sperm quality. The first step to identifying Infertility in men is by a diagnosis. Semen analysis is performed to identify factors such as: 

Low Sperm Count

Also known as oligospermia, which is when the semen contains fewer sperm than normal, usually diagnosed by a medical professional. Even when diagnosed with low sperm count, your partner has to be checked as well to rule out infertility issues on their side and help guide the fertility options. Low sperm count can affect fertility in that there are fewer sperm to reach the egg.

The health care provider will generally do a physical exam of your genitals and ask questions about your health, to determine any underlying conditions. Semen analysis is also done under a microscope to determine how the sperms present. The semen is usually collected through masturbation and ejaculation into a container or in a condom after sex. For accurate diagnosis, a patient will be asked not to have sex or masturbate at least 2-5 days before the semen collection. A follow up sperm collection is made after 2 weeks. 

IVF for male infertility may be recommended in cases of very low sperm quantity. In this case the sperm is “washed” and a single sperm is injected directly into a partner’s egg for fertilization in a laboratory and then the resulting embryo is  implanted into the partner’s womb for gestation. 

Motility Issues

The ability of sperm to move efficiently is called sperm motility and there are two kinds. One where the sperm swim in wider circles or following a straight line. The other is when the sperm do not follow a straight line or swim in tight circles. When less than 32 percent of sperm are able to move efficiently, the condition is diagnosed as poor sperm motility according to Yale medicine. 

Upon diagnosis, the healthcare professional and the patient partner to identify the most efficient pathway to parenthood. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) may be recommended when the sperm quantity is reduced but the sperm motility is sufficient. The sperm is washed to concentrate the healthy ones and then directly injected into the partner’s uterus for an increased chance of pregnancy.

DNA Fragmentation

Is the damage in the genetic fabric of the sperm cell. Smoking, oxidative stress, excessive heat exposure as well as abnormalities in sperm cell maturation are some of the leading causes of sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF). Pregnancies from individuals with high SDF may lead to failed IVF, miscarriages, poor embryo quality and high mortality rates. The rate of SDF is determined by the fertility specialist who will do a sperm analysis to determine the extent of damage to the sperm DNA. Some of the treatment options for SDF include lifestyle changes, antioxidant therapy, hormonal therapy and procedures to reduce varicoceles which are enlarged veins located in the scrotum.

Lifestyle Factors That Impact Sperm Health 

Several factors may affect sperm health such as food lifestyle choices and even stress.

Diet

A well balanced diet plays a crucial role in sperm production because it directly impacts sperm count, hormonal levels and general health. Diets rich in processed meats, high dairy fats and sugars may kill sperm. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may increase the quality of sperm produced.

Smoking 

Cigarette smoking  is common in males of reproductive age. Carbon monoxide and nicotine are the most popular hazardous substances contained in cigarette smoke and they affect sperm quality by affecting the sperm count, morphology and concentration thus leading to infertility.

Alcohol 

Excessive Alcohol consumption is another factor that negatively impacts sperm health as it causes a significant reduction in sperm quality. A Study out Pubmed Central on the impact of lifestyle factors on male fertility  shows that men who consume 20 units of alcohol per week experience a longer time to achieve pregnancy, highlighting the impact of lifestyle choices on male fertility.

Stress

Psychological stress can also detrimentally affect sperm quality as it affects the shape, count and ability to fertilize a healthy egg. Stressed men are more likely to have lower concentration of sperm in their ejaculate.

How to Improve Sperm Quality Naturally 

Different methods may be applied to improve sperm quality naturally. A health care professional may prescribe lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and excessive drinking, eating a healthy diet, exercising and use of supplements such as zinc and omega 3 fatty acids to significantly improve sperm quality.

When to See a Fertility Specialist 

After having regular unprotected sex for a minimum of 1 year with no pregnancy, it is recommended to seek the help of a fertility specialist to identify causes and treatment options. Additionally others cases may require medical intervention such as:  

• A history of illness such as diabetes
• Sexual dysfunctions
• STIs
• Varicoceles
• Hormonal imbalance
• Advanced age

Available Male Fertility Treatments 

Although male fertility issues contribute to a half of the fertility cases, all is not lost as there are a number of male fertility treatments that offer hope and remedies for those facing fertility issues. In fact, in very rare cases, can a man not father a child. Timely interventions and an understanding of the causes of infertility and the available treatments is often the first step to becoming a father. At the Fertility Associates of Memphis (FAM) we offer a myriad of solutions such as fertility preservation, evaluation and testing, IVF and IUI among others, that could best place you on a successful path to fatherhood. Don't wait! book your appointment today and start your journey to success.

FAQs:

Why should I get a male fertility test?

Male infertility contributes to about half of all infertility cases. Conducting tests can help pinpoint underlying issues and determine the best course of treatment.

What does a semen analysis measure?

A semen analysis assesses various aspects of sperm, including count, movement, shape, and overall health, to help identify potential fertility concerns.

How do I prepare for a semen analysis?

To ensure accurate results, it's recommended to abstain from ejaculation for 2 to 5 days before the test. Additionally, reducing alcohol and caffeine intake, as well as avoiding exposure to high temperatures like saunas and hot tubs, can help maintain sperm quality.

Is male fertility testing painful?

No. A semen analysis is a straightforward and non-invasive procedure that simply requires providing a sample for evaluation. It helps assess sperm health and fertility potential without discomfort or complex procedures.

What happens if my test results show infertility?

Your doctor will analyze the results and suggest appropriate next steps, which may include lifestyle adjustments, medication, or assisted reproductive techniques tailored to your individual situation.