Infertility is a very common problem for a lot of males. Conception is a very complicated process and there are a lot of obstacles. There are treatments available which increase your chances of conception even if faced with infertility issues.
About Male Infertility
Infertility is a condition that can concern both male and female individuals. Male Infertility specifically is a condition that affects males. It interferes with the ability of their reproductive system and hinders their ability to be able to impregnate females.
Symptoms Of Male Infertility
The primary symptom of Male Infertility is being unable to have a child (biological). There are also other emotional and psychological aspects which also influence such a condition. They are:
- Loss
- Depression
- Failure
- Grief
- Inadequacy
If you or your partner experience any of such feelings, it would be a good idea to talk to a psychiatrist or therapist.
Sometimes, male infertility is also linked with a low production of testosterone from testicles. In this specific case, symptoms which show are – impotence, tiredness, weight gain, depression and apathy. If you or your partner experience any of such symptoms, the best thing would be to consult a Urologist who specializes in male infertility. A Reproductive Endocrinologist will also be able to help.
Causes That Lead To This Condition
Male Infertility can result from a different underlying factors. Some of the most common ones are sperm production and sperm delivery. Here is a list of the primary causes of such a condition:
Problems In Sperm Production
It is reported that approximately 90% of Male Infertility cases happen due to issues with sperm production. Some conditions which contribute to it are – low sperm motility, low sperm count and abnormal sperm morphology. All of them fall under this category.
Having genetic disorders like Klinefelter Syndrome, and infections like mumps orchitis also impairs sperm production.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal Disorders which affect testosterone and other hormones also lead to infertility issues. Having problems with Pituitary Gland or Hypothalamus hinders the production of hormones that are necessary for sperm production.
Genetic Factors
Genetic abnormalities play a major role in male infertility. For example, having chromosomal abnormalities affects the sperm function and production.
Having Structural Abnormalities
Having conditions like Varicocele also impairs sperm delivery and production. A presence of other anatomical issues like ejaculatory duct obstruction and blocked seminal ducts also prevents sperm from reaching ejaculate.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions
There are certain medical treatments like radiation therapy and chemotherapy for cancer. It directly impairs sperm production. Moreover, chronic illnesses like Cystic Fibrosis and Diabetes also impact male fertility.
Influence Of Lifestyle Factors
Modern lifestyle factors like excessive alcohol consumption, smoking and drinking also affect sperm production quality and quantity. An occupational exposure to heat, chemicals and radiation also further contributes to male fertility.
Diagnosis And Treatment Of Male Infertility
To diagnose male infertility, doctors usually start with a detailed medical history and physical exam. The main tests include:
Conducting A Seminal Analysis
This analysis checks sperm count, movement, shape, and the overall semen quality. It is usually the first test that gets done.
Doing Hormonal Testing
Blood tests measure hormones like LH, testosterone, and FSH. They help in producing sperm.
Conducting Genetic Testing
This testing looks for genetic issues that might affect fertility in a male.
Analyzing Imaging Studies
Ultrasound and other scans check for problems/blockages that occur in the reproductive organs.
In Conclusion,
Male Infertility results from a vast range of factors. They range from genetic conditions and hormonal imbalance to lifestyle choices. It is important to understand the causes as they are the first step towards addressing and seeking out appropriate treatment.
Consider consulting Dr. Nilanjan Mitra to get expert treatment and guidance on your male infertility issues. You can visit us at 10/4D, Elgin Rd, Sreepally, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700020.