If you are unsuccessfully trying to conceive, it can affect your physical and emotional wellbeing. You are not alone; many couples struggle with fertility issues, and in many cases, it is due to male infertility.
Below is a detailed guide to understanding male infertility: what you need to know. Keep reading to discover the common causes of male infertility and ways to boost it.
What is male fertility?
For humans, male fertility relies on the daily production of millions of healthy sperm. However, this doesn’t always occur. Some men experience infertility when their sperm fails to get their female partner pregnant, primarily due to the quality of sperm.
Common causes of male infertility
Although the most common cause of male infertility is in the functioning of the testicles, there are other possible reasons.
These include:
- Absence or blockage of the vas deferens duct
Suppose a male suffers injury or reverses a vasectomy. In that case, the reproductive organs ducts may have a blockage that affects his fertility.
- Lifestyle effects
Excess weight is among the leading causes of low-quality sperm and a low sperm count in men. Regular strenuous physical activities and taking painkillers and body-building medications can lead to male infertility. Additionally, the use of drugs, smoking, and excessive consumption of alcohol affects male fertility.
- Age
As one gets older, their fertility declines. For instance, as men age, they produce less quality sperm, lowering the chances of conception. Conditions such as erectile dysfunction, enlarged prostate, and abnormal sperm production also increase with age, which affects fertility.
- Lack of sperm production
Also known as azoospermia, it refers to a condition where a male does not produce any sperm at all. The common cause of this is either a hormonal imbalance in the body or health issues that block the production of sperm.
- Low sperm count
Known as oligospermia, it is a common cause of male infertility, where the male produces less sperm than usual. One of the leading causes of low sperm count is a massive vein in the testicle known as a varicocele. Defective valves hinder the normal blood flow to and fro the testicles, affecting sperm production.
Ways to improve male fertility
Male fertility depends on physical health, genetics, medical conditions, and diet. However, a healthy diet and physical state can significantly improve the chances of conception.
Below are some recommended ways to improve sperm count and increase fertility.
1. Take supplements
Dietary supplements are not only necessary for a healthy body, but they can improve male fertility. Some common ones are D-aspartic acid supplements and Vitamin D to boost testosterone and Vitamin C to improve immunity.
2. Lower stress levels
When stressed, libido is affected, which may lead to dissatisfaction and eventual infertility issues. High levels of the stress hormone cortisol lower testosterone levels in the male body leading to low sperm count.
Therefore, men need to find healthy ways to relax their minds and relieve stress. Exercising, regular nature walks, and quality time with loved ones are some ways to relax.
3. Reduce weight
Obesity is another cause of infertility in both men and women. For men, doctors recommend losing weight if you are struggling with infertility.
4. Avoid consuming excess alcohol
Reducing the intake of alcohol can improve fertility, as excess consumption lowers sperm quality and testosterone levels.
5. Regular exercise
Physical exercise is not only good for overall health, but it can significantly improve fertility. Men with a healthy exercise regime typically have higher fertility than those without.
6. Medical intervention
Doctors also recommend medical interventions such as in vitro fertilization for those with male fertility issues. The success rate depends on various factors, but it is a viable option for conception.
Conclusion
Male infertility affects millions of people worldwide. For anyone experiencing fertility issues, maintaining a healthy lifestyle should be the primary focus. The above tips should help, but it is essential to seek professional help if conception fails after trying for over a year.