Common Causes Of Infertility In Men

For any couple trying to start a family, infertility diagnosis cannot be less than a nightmare. If a couple has not been able to conceive even after a year of unprotected sex, they are asked to visit a fertility specialist. However, infertility doesn't need to be caused only in women. Certain factors are responsible for causing infertility in men too. It is just that infertility in men seems more difficult to diagnose than infertility in women because of non-arrival of symptoms early. However, in India, infertility has become one of the causes for concern. Couples must have a clear understanding of infertility so that they may take the necessary steps to manage their condition.

Let us have a look at some of the most common causes of infertility in men:

1.Varicoceles
Varicoceles are the most common causes of male infertility, which generally means the enlargement of veins in the scrotum, resulting in complications with usual sperm production. However, varicoceles can also be reversed. On asking why varicoceles lead to infertility, most infertility specialists acknowledge that since sperm requires an optimal temperature to develop normally, any temperature variation can cause abnormalities, and varicoceles generally increase the internal temperature of the scrotum. Hence, Varicoceles have been linked to low sperm count, sperm morphology, and sperm quality.

2.Retrograde ejaculation or dry ejaculation
Problems with ejaculation can prevent conception, no matter if a man has a healthy sperm count. Retrograde ejaculation(also known as dry ejaculation) occurs when semen, instead of coming out of the penis during orgasm, enters the bladder. Retrograde ejaculation may be caused by various factors, including impairment in the spinal cord, any previous surgical procedures, and diabetes. However, despite experiencing retrograde ejaculation, if a man has a healthy sperm count, they can be taken out and used for artificial insemination.

3. Issues related to tubes
At the time of ejaculation, sperm moves through many different tubes before finally exiting the penis. If any of these tubes are found blocked, it might lead to low sperm count, and as a result, causes infertility. One of the main reasons for sperm blockage is deformities or a complete absence of the vas deferens that can be a congenital disability or causes due to physical trauma. However, other tubules, including the epididymis, the urethra, and the ejaculatory ducts, might cause blockages. Moreover, previous surgeries, infections, and cysts are some of the common reasons causing abnormalities within the tubules.

4.Infections
Untreated infections for a long time can cause significant damage to the sperm and tubes. Sexually Transmitted Infections, such as gonorrhea, can cause inflammation in the testicles, and the tube which carries sperm from the testicles to the vas deferens, known as the epididymis. In addition, HIV can also be considered responsible for not having healthy sperm production and transport.

5.Lifestyle
One of the main causes of male infertility is following an unhealthy lifestyle. One such lifestyle habit includes smoking, which is considered one of the most widespread causes of male infertility. There are a large number of populations worldwide who smoke, resulting in contributing to a drastic increase in cases of male infertility. Moreover, obesity, consumption of excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs are equally responsible for low sperm count and quality. Additionally, most men are seen taking bodybuilding supplements. It may also result in low fertility levels among men.

Many other certain causes are affecting male infertility besides the above-mentioned ones. However, the dread of infertility should not put an end to your dreams of becoming a parent. At First Step IVF, we offer you the latest development in Infertility treatment, along with years of expertise to help you accomplish the journey of parenthood. To know more, contact the experts at First Step IVF today!