Crucial Facts Affecting Male Infertility: Causes and Potential Solutions
Understanding Male Infertility
Infertility is a growing concern worldwide, and male infertility constitutes a significant portion of this issue. According to recent statistics, about 17% of couples in Belarus are infertile, with male infertility accounting for 50% of these cases. To shed light on this topic, we’ve consulted with a urologist from the Minsk City Family Planning Center, Andrei Bond.
What is Male Infertility?
Male infertility is a condition characterized by the inability to conceive a child after a year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. This condition can be caused by various factors, ranging from genetic issues to lifestyle choices.
Causes of Male Infertility
There are numerous causes of male infertility. Some of the most significant include:
Congenital Infertility
Congenital infertility, which accounts for about 15% of cases, is one of the most challenging types to treat. It can be divided into two groups:
- Genetic Factors: Defects in chromosomes can lead to severe abnormalities in sperm analysis, making treatment difficult.
- Hypoplasia of the Testicles: Underdeveloped testicles produce poor-quality sperm. However, younger men with this condition may still be able to father a child with a healthy partner.
Varicocele
Varicocele, a condition characterized by the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum, accounts for about 11% of male infertility cases. This condition can often be treated surgically.
Inflammatory Processes
About 30-40% of male infertility cases are due to inflammatory processes within the reproductive system. These inflammations can be caused by infections, sexually transmitted diseases, or other factors.
Trauma and Surgery
Injuries or surgeries involving the reproductive organs can also lead to infertility. These can cause blockages or other issues that prevent the normal production and transport of sperm.
Idiopathic Infertility
In some cases, the cause of infertility remains unknown. This is referred to as idiopathic infertility.
Environmental Factors
Environmental factors play a significant role in male infertility. Chronic exposure to toxins, such as those found in certain workplaces, can lead to abnormalities in sperm analysis. This includes exposure to chemicals, radiation, and extreme temperatures. Additionally, excessive consumption of alcohol and smoking can also negatively impact sperm quality.
Medications
Certain medications can affect sperm parameters. These include antidepressants, hormonal treatments, medications for high blood pressure and cholesterol, and drugs used in cancer treatment.
Preparing for a Sperm Analysis
Before undergoing a sperm analysis, it’s essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure accurate results:
- Sexual abstinence for 2-6 days (optimally 4 days) before the test.
- Avoiding alcohol for at least a week before the test.
- Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as they might affect the results.
Diagnosing Male Infertility
Diagnosing male infertility typically involves a sperm analysis. If the results are abnormal, further tests may be conducted, including:
- Infection screenings
- Hormone tests
- Ultrasound of the reproductive system
- Screenings for underlying conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and liver diseases
The World Health Organization (WHO) sets the standards for normal sperm analysis, which are reviewed every ten years. Currently, a normal sperm count is considered to be 35 million sperm per milliliter, with at least 30% being normally shaped and motile.
Treating Male Infertility
Treatment for male infertility focuses on addressing the underlying causes. This can take anywhere from three months to several years. If no specific cause is found, medications may be prescribed to improve sperm parameters. Lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol consumption and quitting smoking, are also recommended.
Follow-up sperm analyses are typically conducted after 70 days of treatment to assess progress. Even if improvements are minimal, continuing treatment and following the urologist’s recommendations can still lead to successful conception.
According to global recommendations, if pregnancy does not occur after 24 months of treatment, couples may consider assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Preventing Male Infertility
Preventive measures for male infertility include:
- Limiting exposure to environmental toxins and harmful substances.
- Reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking.
- Discussing medication use with a healthcare provider to explore potential alternatives.
- Avoiding tight-fitting underwear to prevent overheating and compression of the testicles.
- Limiting visits to saunas and hot baths.
- Strengthening the immune system to prevent illnesses such as flu and respiratory infections.
For further information on male infertility, you can visit the World Health Organization website.
