Causes of male infertility

Male infertility can be caused by low sperm production, abnormal sperm function, or blockages that prevent sperm from being transported.

Illness, injury, lifestyle and other factors can also contribute to male infertility. Therefore, doctors advise men to overcome their shyness and check their fertility early before deciding to have children or get married. Early detection of problems will help increase the success rate of treatment and the ability to have children.

A semen analysis can check for sperm quality, quantity, and abnormalities. If the first test result is normal, the doctor may order a second test to confirm. Two normal results are usually interpreted as indicating that the man does not have a infertility problem. If the results are abnormal, the man will need to undergo further tests to determine the exact cause.

Male infertility has many causes but can be treated if detected early. Photo: Freepik — Male infertility has many causes but can be treated if detected early. Photo: *Freepik*

Some causes that affect male fertility include:

Sexually transmitted diseases or infections: Genital infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause infertility in men and are usually resolved by treating the infection.

Blockages, congenital abnormalities : In some cases, men are born with blockages in parts of the testicles or other abnormalities that prevent sperm from entering the semen. Injuries to the testicles, prostate, and urethra can also lead to fertility problems. Surgery can correct these conditions.

Retrograde ejaculation: Semen does not flow out of the penis during ejaculation but goes into the bladder. This can be caused by diabetes, certain medications, or surgery on the bladder, prostate, or urethra.

Genetic diseases: Although rare, genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis or chromosomal disorders can cause infertility.

Autoimmune problems: In some cases, the immune system may mistakenly target sperm cells and treat them as a foreign virus. As a result, sperm are damaged.

Hormonal problems: Hormonal imbalances in the pituitary and thyroid glands can also cause infertility and can be treated with medication.

Sexual problems: Erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation affect fertility. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by psychological problems or physical problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease. In addition, men can become impotent due to the side effects of certain medications such as antidepressants.

Varicocele: Varicocele is a swelling of the veins that drain the testicles. Although the exact reason why varicocele causes infertility is unknown, it may be related to abnormal blood flow. This condition leads to reduced sperm count and quality.

Other factors causing male infertility include: excessive exercise leading to the release of too many steroid hormones, affecting fertility; obesity; drinking too much alcohol, smoking...; exposure to toxic substances such as pesticides, radiation, radioactive substances, mercury...

Male infertility can be treated if detected early. If the sperm count is low, men need to reduce the number of sexual intercourses to increase sperm concentration. Supplementing vitamins such as folic acid and zinc is also a way to improve quality and quantity. If the hormone level is abnormal, hormone treatment is needed. If retrograde ejaculation occurs, the doctor will ask the patient to use medication. In addition, changing lifestyle such as regular exercise and establishing a scientific diet is also a way to improve health and increase fertility.

In some cases, artificial insemination or other modern assisted reproductive techniques will help men have children.

Gia Han ( According to WebMD, Mayo Clinic )

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