How common is male infertility?
Male infertility is a significant health concern in India. Here are the key statistics and facts:
Prevalence
- Male infertility accounts for 40-50% of all infertility cases in India.
- Approximately 27.5 million Indians face infertility issues, including both men and women.
- One in every six Indian couples struggles with infertility.
Current Trends
Male sperm count has drastically declined:
- 60 million/ml (three decades ago)
- Currently around 20 million/ml
- 12-18 million couples in India are diagnosed with infertility annually
Key Contributing Factors
Lifestyle Related:
- Increasing stress levels
- Alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- Poor dietary choices
- Sedentary lifestyle
Environmental Factors:
- Pollution
- Exposure to toxins
- Pesticides
- Heavy metals,/li>
- Radiation from electronic devices
Medical Conditions:
- Hormonal imbalances
- Diabetes
- Infections affecting reproductive health
Social Impact
- Male infertility remains largely stigmatised in India
- Limited awareness about male reproductive health
- Restricted access to quality healthcare
- Higher prevalence in rural areas due to limited medical facilities.
What causes male infertility?
The aetiology of male infertility is multifaceted, potentially stemming from issues in sperm production, functionality, or physical impediments to sperm delivery.
Issues with sperm production
Sperm-related issues contributing to male infertility can be categorised into three primary areas: insufficient sperm quantity, reduced sperm motility, and abnormal sperm structure.
- Oligospermia: It is characterised by a sperm count below the normal threshold, is one of the conditions affecting sperm production in male infertility. Hormonal imbalances, genetic factors, and infections are potential causes of this condition.
- Poor sperm motility (asthenospermia): It refers to the reduced movement of sperm, making it difficult for them to reach the egg. This can be due to oxidative stress, DNA damage, or immunological issues.
- Abnormal sperm morphology (teratospermia) is a condition where the shape and structure of sperm are abnormal, affecting their ability to fertilise an egg. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetic abnormalities, or exposure to toxins.
Factors that can contribute to issues with sperm production.
A range of factors can contribute to issues with sperm production, including:
- Hormonal imbalances: Imbalances in hormone levels, such as testosterone, can affect sperm production.
- Genetic abnormalities: Genetic conditions, such as cystic fibrosis, can affect sperm production and function.
- Infections: Infections, such as mumps, can damage the testicles and affect sperm production.
- Varicoceles: Enlarged veins in the scrotum can cause heat buildup, leading to reduced sperm quality and quantity.
- Certain medications: Certain medications, such as anabolic steroids, can affect sperm production.
- Sperm function
- Sperm function can also be compromised by various factors, including:
- Oxidative stress: High levels of oxidative stress can damage sperm DNA and affect their ability to fertilise an egg.
- Factors such as exposure to radiation, chemicals, or infections can lead to DNA damage in sperm, affecting their function.
- Immunological issues: Immunological issues, such as autoimmune disorders, can affect sperm function.
Blockages in the reproductive tract
They can be caused by:
Infections or injuries: Infections or injuries to the epididymis, vas deferens, or other reproductive tract structures can cause blockages that prevent sperm delivery.
Lifestyle factors that can impact male fertility
Certain lifestyle choices, including tobacco use, excessive alcohol intake, substance abuse, and obesity, can have detrimental effects on male fertility. For example:
- Smoking can reduce sperm count and motility
- Overindulgence in alcohol can negatively impact testosterone production and sperm quality.
- The use of certain drugs, particularly anabolic steroids, can interfere with normal sperm production and function.
- Excess body weight can lead to increased inflammation, potentially compromising both sperm quality and quantity.
By understanding the various factors that contribute to male infertility, individuals can take steps to address these issues and improve their chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.
What are the symptoms of male infertility?
In many cases, male infertility does not present obvious symptoms, with the primary indication being the inability to conceive after a year of regular, unprotected sexual activity. Some men may experience certain signs that warrant further investigation, including:
- Alterations in sexual function, such as diminished sexual desire or difficulty maintaining an erection, may be indicative of male infertility.
- Discomfort or swelling in the testicular region could be a sign of male infertility.
- Unusual changes in semen volume or consistency might suggest fertility issues in men.
Hormonal imbalances, which may manifest as changes in:
Hair growth
Gynecomastia (breast enlargement)
A decrease in muscle mass
While these symptoms can be indicative of male infertility, they can also be related to other health conditions, making it essential to seek medical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and to rule out other potential causes.
How is male infertility diagnosed?
The diagnostic process begins with a thorough review of medical history and a physical examination.
- Medical History Review: The doctor will ask about your sexual history, overall health, lifestyle factors (diet, exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption), and any previous or existing medical conditions.
- Physical Examination: This exam focuses on the genital area, checking for any abnormalities in the testicles, penis, and surrounding structures. This helps identify any physical signs that may contribute to infertility.
Semen examination: A key component in diagnosing male infertility is the analysis of semen to assess sperm quantity and quality.
This test determines the concentration of sperm cells in a given semen sample.
The examination evaluates how effectively sperm cells can move and navigate.
Sperm Morphology (teratospermia): Examines the size and shape of the sperm.
Hormonal Testing: Hormone levels play a vital role in male fertility, and these tests check for imbalances.
Reduced levels of testosterone can have a significant impact on the body's ability to produce sperm.
Additional hormones related to reproductive function may also be assessed during the diagnostic process.
Depending on the initial findings, further tests might be necessary.
Genetic testing may be conducted to identify any hereditary factors that could be affecting fertility.
Imaging Tests (Ultrasound, etc.): To visualise the reproductive organs and check for blockages or structural issues.
In certain cases, a small sample of testicular tissue may be extracted for closer examination.
The overall goal of the diagnostic process is to identify the specific cause of infertility, which then guides the development of a personalised and effective treatment plan.
What tests will be done to diagnose male infertility?
Several tests are employed to diagnose male infertility, providing a comprehensive assessment of sperm health and reproductive function.
- Semen analysis: This comprehensive test evaluates various aspects of semen and sperm health.
- Hormonal testing: It helps to identify any imbalances that could be affecting reproductive function.
- Gene testing: This type of testing looks for specific genetic factors that may be contributing to infertility.
- Biopsy:A testicular biopsy involves extracting a small tissue sample to examine sperm production at its source.
- Scans: Various imaging techniques are used to visualise the reproductive organs and identify any structural issues.
- Urine examination: This test checks for the presence of sperm in urine, which can indicate a condition where semen flows backwards into the bladder.
Dr. Vishal Dutt Gour
MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Urology/Genito-Urinary Surgery, Urologist,Urological Surgeon,Andrologist
What foods should I avoid if I have male infertility?
While a balanced diet is essential for overall health, certain foods may negatively impact male fertility and should be consumed in moderation or avoided.
- Processed Meats: High consumption of processed meats is linked to reduced semen quality.
- Sugary Drinks and Foods: Excess sugar intake can disrupt hormonal balance and affect sperm health.
- Trans Fats: Found in many processed foods, trans fats can impair sperm production and function.
- Soy Products: Some studies suggest that excessive soy intake may negatively affect sperm concentration.
- Excessive Alcohol: High alcohol consumption can lower testosterone levels and impair sperm quality.
- Pesticides and Herbicides: Exposure to these chemicals can disrupt hormone production and affect fertility.
When to see a doctor to treat male infertility?
Knowing when to consult a doctor about male infertility is crucial for timely intervention and improved treatment outcomes.
- Inability to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse: This is the primary indicator that warrants medical evaluation.
- Changes in sexual function: Noticeable changes in libido, erectile function, or ejaculation should be discussed with a doctor.
- Pain or swelling in the testicular area: These symptoms could indicate underlying issues requiring medical attention.
- History of sexually transmitted infections (STIs): Past STIs can increase the risk of infertility and warrant evaluation.
- Exposure to toxins or radiation: Exposure to environmental toxins or radiation can negatively affect fertility.
- Family history of infertility: A family history of infertility may increase the likelihood of similar issues
FAQs
Having a low sperm count might show up in a few ways. Struggling to get your partner pregnant is a big one, of course. You might also notice changes in your sex drive or how well you perform sexually. Physical discomfort, like pain or swelling around your testicles, is another potential sign. If any of these sound familiar, it's worth getting checked out.
A full fertility check-up is best for checking male fertility which usually involves a few things. The doctor will likely give you a physical exam and ask about your health history. Then, there's the semen analysis, which looks at the quality and quantity of your sperm. By combining these, fertility experts can get a good understanding of your reproductive health and suggest a plan that's tailored for you.
The most reliable way to find out that the sperm is healthy is through a semen analysis. It's a straightforward test that checks out a few key things: how many sperm you have, how well they move, and what shape they are. Getting this test done can give you peace of mind and help you understand any potential fertility challenges. Plus, you can usually get results pretty quickly. For any worries you have about your fertility you can contact SCI hospital. We can diagnose what's going on, offer treatments, and provide support throughout the process. Getting in touch is easy, all you have to do is call, book online appointment, or just walk in for a consultation.
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