Infertility can be attributed to men as well, which makes up around 40% of cases where men are found to be the sole cause or a contributing factor of infertility issues in couples.
For conception to occur, it involves the union of a male’s sperm and a female’s egg— where sperm is produced and stored in the testicles and later delivered to the female reproductive tract through ejaculation during sexual intercourse. The primary issues responsible for male infertility are the ones that hamper the functioning of the testicles. Conversely, hormone imbalances, obstructions or non-existence of certain ducts within the male reproductive system present further problems. Lifestyle choices and aging also contribute to male infertility.
Here in this article, we are discussing different reasons that increase male infertility and nil sperm count treatment.
Causes of male infertility
Varicocele
- Varicoceles, a condition characterized by enlarged veins around the testicles, can lead to overheating of the testicles, thereby impairing sperm production.
- Though the exact cause remains unknown, varicoceles are believed to be a combination of factors including genetics, hormonal imbalances, and pressure exerted by the testicles on the veins.
Hormonal imbalance
- An adequate balance of hormones, including testosterone and FSH, is imperative for optimal sperm production. Any disruptions in these hormonal levels may result in infertility.
- Elevated levels of FSH can serve as an indicator of impaired testicular function, leading to compromised sperm production.
- Hormonal imbalances may arise from a range of factors such as medical conditions (e.g. pituitary tumours, Klinefelter syndrome), medications (e.g. chemotherapy drugs, steroids), and lifestyle choices (e.g. smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity).
Age
- The belief that men can continue to reproduce at an advanced age is erroneous.
- Male reproductive potential significantly decreases after the age of 35 due to fragmentation of DNA in the nucleus.
- Beyond the age of 40, the probability of men fathering a child without genetic mutations diminishes by 11 percent annually.
- Children born to fathers over 50 are at a notably higher risk of developing conditions such as Down Syndrome, Neurofibromatosis, Autism, and Kleinfelter Syndrome.
Tubal factor infertility
- Tubal factor infertility is a prevalent cause of male infertility, constituting 30-40% of cases.
- It arises from obstructions in the vas deferens or epididymis, which are responsible for transporting sperm from the testicles to the urethra and facilitating sperm maturation, respectively.
- The presence of blockages in these crucial tubes can impede sperm ejaculation or lead to sperm damage.
Lifestyle factors
- A lack of physical activity due to a sedentary lifestyle can have negative effects on male fertility, impacting sperm count and quality.
- Prolonged stress may also have an impact on male reproductive health, as it can disrupt hormone levels and lead to a decrease in both sperm quantity and quality.
- The consumption of tobacco is a lifestyle factor that has the potential to negatively impact male reproductive health. Research indicates that smoking has been linked to decreased sperm count and quality, as well as potential damage to DNA.
- Overconsumption of alcohol may have adverse effects on sperm production and quality, as well as decrease testosterone levels and disrupt sexual function.
Medications
- Certain medications may have a negative impact on sperm production or quality.
- These medications include chemotherapy drugs, anabolic steroids, antidepressants, as well as other medications such as pain relievers, antibiotics, and antihistamines.
- It is important to be aware of the potential effects of these medications on fertility.
Treatment for low sperm count
Now, we are going to explain low sperm treatment.
Medication
- Medication has the potential to enhance sperm count in certain individuals experiencing infertility.
- A physician may choose to prescribe an estrogen receptor blocker, such as clomiphene citrate, to activate the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, thereby promoting hormone secretion and the liberation of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which can lead to heightened sperm production.
Surgery
- Surgical procedures, such as correcting a varicocele or repairing an obstructed vas deferens, can be conducted. Additionally, vasectomies can be reversed.
- If no sperm are found in the ejaculate, sperm retrieval techniques can be utilized to extract sperm from the testicles or epididymis.
Assisted reproductive technology
- ART procedures typically involve procuring sperm through methods such as normal ejaculation, surgical extraction, or from donor individuals, depending on the specific circumstances and preferences of the individual.
- Following this, the sperm is introduced into the female reproductive tract, or utilized for procedures such as IVF or intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
Artificial sperm donor
- In cases where the testicles are unable to produce sperm, artificial donor sperm insemination becomes the sole option, necessitating sperm donation.
- Numerous sperm banks offer frozen sperm from donors, allowing couples to select a suitable donor based on their preferences.
- The donated sperm undergoes a mandatory quarantine period of over 6 months for thorough screening of infectious diseases like HIV, ensuring safety and quality for the recipients.
Summary
Male infertility can present challenges for a couple, particularly for the man who may experience feelings of guilt. It is crucial to remember that infertility is not a result of anyone’s actions, and with appropriate nil sperm count treatment, it is probable that the condition can be overcome.
If feeling overwhelmed or disheartened, consider confiding in your partner and seeking guidance from a professional counselor. Joining an online support group may also provide encouragement by hearing success stories from other men who have successfully navigated through infertility.
Stay positive.
