Causes of

Male Infertility

Male infertility is a common issue and contributes to nearly 40-50% of infertility cases. It is important to understand that infertility in men can result from a wide range of factors, including genetic, medical, and environmental causes. At Empower Fertility, we provide comprehensive care and testing to identify the root cause of infertility, allowing for personalized treatment solutions. This page will explore the most common causes of male infertility.

1. Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)

One of the most common causes of male infertility is a low sperm count. A sperm count below 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen is considered low. Several factors can contribute to low sperm count, including:

  • Hormonal Imbalance: Problems with testosterone and other hormones can disrupt sperm production.

  • Varicocele: A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins in the scrotum, which can raise the temperature of the testicles and reduce sperm production.

  • Infections: Certain infections, such as epididymitis or prostatitis, can impact sperm count.

  • Medications: Some medications, such as anabolic steroids, chemotherapy, and certain antibiotics, can interfere with sperm production.

  • Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol use, and poor diet can also contribute to low sperm count.

2. Low Sperm Motility (Asthenozoospermia)

Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm to swim effectively toward the egg. Poor sperm motility (astenozoospermia) can make it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize the egg. Factors contributing to low sperm motility include:

  • Varicocele: An enlarged vein in the scrotum can lead to low motility.

  • Genetic Disorders: Certain genetic conditions can affect sperm movement.

  • Infections: Infections in the reproductive organs can affect motility.

  • Toxins and Chemical Exposure: Exposure to chemicals, heavy metals, or radiation can reduce sperm motility.

3. Abnormal Sperm Morphology (Teratozoospermia)

Sperm morphology refers to the shape and size of sperm. Abnormal sperm morphology means that sperm may have irregular shapes, such as abnormally sized heads or tails, which can hinder their ability to penetrate the egg. Common causes of abnormal sperm morphology include:

  • Genetic Issues: Genetic abnormalities may result in malformed sperm.

  • Varicocele: The enlargement of veins in the scrotum may contribute to sperm morphology problems.

  • Environmental Factors: Excessive heat, chemicals, or toxins can affect sperm shape.

  • Infections: Chronic infections in the reproductive tract can lead to malformed sperm.

4. Blockages or Obstructions

Obstructions in the male reproductive system can prevent sperm from reaching the semen. These blockages can be caused by:

  • Congenital Absence of the Vas Deferens (CAVD): A genetic condition where the vas deferens, the tubes responsible for carrying sperm from the testes to the urethra, is absent or blocked.

  • Infections: Previous infections or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can cause scarring or blockages in the reproductive organs.

  • Injury: Physical injury to the reproductive organs, such as the testicles or prostate, can lead to scarring and blockages.

  • Surgical Complications: Previous surgeries, such as vasectomy or hernia repair, can result in blockages.

5. Erectile Dysfunction (ED)

Erectile dysfunction refers to the inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse. This can lead to infertility if sperm cannot be ejaculated into the woman’s reproductive tract. Causes of erectile dysfunction include:

  • Psychological Factors: Stress, anxiety, and depression can contribute to ED.

  • Physical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease can lead to ED.

  • Medications: Certain medications, including antidepressants, antihypertensives, and recreational drugs, may contribute to erectile dysfunction.

  • Hormonal Imbalance: Low testosterone levels or other hormone imbalances can affect erectile function.

6. Hormonal Imbalance

The production of healthy sperm is highly dependent on a delicate balance of hormones, including testosterone, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone), and others. Hormonal imbalances can interfere with sperm production and lead to male infertility. Conditions that may disrupt hormone levels include:

  • Hypogonadism: A condition where the testes do not produce enough testosterone.

  • Pituitary Disorders: The pituitary gland regulates several hormones, and disorders can affect sperm production.

  • Thyroid Issues: Hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism can disrupt reproductive hormones.

7. Genetic Conditions

Genetic factors can play a significant role in male infertility. Some of the most common genetic causes include:

  • Klinefelter Syndrome: A condition where males are born with an extra X chromosome, which can result in low testosterone and reduced sperm production.

  • Cystic Fibrosis: Males with cystic fibrosis often have blockages in the vas deferens, leading to infertility.

  • Y-Chromosome Microdeletions: Deletions of specific genes on the Y chromosome can cause severe sperm production issues.

8. Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

Environmental toxins and lifestyle choices can impact male fertility. These factors include:

  • Chemical Exposure: Long-term exposure to pesticides, industrial chemicals, and heavy metals can reduce sperm quality.

  • Heat: Prolonged exposure to heat, such as in hot tubs or through tight clothing, can affect sperm production.

  • Smoking and Alcohol: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are linked to lower sperm count, motility, and overall fertility.

9. Stress and Mental Health

Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression can impact male fertility by disrupting hormone production and interfering with sperm production. Managing stress and mental health can play a critical role in improving fertility.

10. Age-Related Decline

While men do not experience the same sharp decline in fertility as women with age, male fertility can decline over time. As men age, sperm count, motility, and morphology can deteriorate, which can reduce the chances of conception.

Take the Next Step Toward Parenthood

If you’re struggling with male infertility, Empower Fertility is here to help. Our experienced fertility specialists will work with you to diagnose the underlying cause and recommend personalized treatment options to help you on your journey to parenthood.

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