Male infertility
Definition: Male infertility refers to the inability to conceive a child after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse.
Prevalence: Affects approximately 15-20% of couples worldwide.
Causes of Male Infertility
- Hormonal Imbalance:
- Low testosterone levels
- Hypogonadism
- Hyperprolactinemia
- Sperm Disorders:
- Low sperm count
- Poor sperm motility
- Abnormal sperm morphology
- Anatomical Issues:
- Undescended testes
- Varicocele
- Epididymal obstruction
- Infections and Inflammations:
- Epididymitis
- Orchitis
- Prostatitis
- Lifestyle Factors:
- Smoking
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Substance abuse
- Obesity
Risk Factors for Male Infertility
- Age
- Family history
- Previous surgeries (e.g., vasectomy, hernia repair)
- Exposure to toxins (e.g., pesticides, heavy metals)
- Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, thyroid disorders)
Symptoms of Male Infertility
- Difficulty conceiving
- Low sperm count
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased libido
- Testicular pain or swelling
Diagnosis of Male Infertility
- Medical history
- Physical examination
- Semen analysis
- Hormone testing
- Imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, MRI)
Complications of Untreated Male Infertility
- Emotional distress
- Relationship problems
- Decreased self-esteem
- Increased risk of testicular cancer
Prevention and Self-Care
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Manage stress
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid harmful substances
- Protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
When to Seek Medical Help
- If experiencing difficulty conceiving
- If experiencing symptoms of male infertility
- If having a family history of infertility
