Male Infertility Has Many Faces

Infertility can be a distressing diagnosis for men hoping to start a family. The numbers show that men and women experience infertility at equal rates. Male infertility is an inability to conceive after 6-12 months of consistent attempts. Statistics show that 9-15% of men are infertile. A reproductive health professional will diagnose infertility after standard fertility testing. The typical reasons include poor sperm quantity, motility, and morphology. There is usually an underlying cause that explains these reasons. While some are well-known, there are lesser-known, sometimes overlooked causes behind the condition. Uncovering these can be the key to treatment and improved pregnancy outcomes.

Medical conditions and infertility

There are some medical conditions that seem unrelated to infertility but can be an underlying cause. Autoimmune diseases previously overlooked can lead to fertility challenges. Some can lower sperm health or damage the reproductive system. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and lupus can impact fertility. Even celiac disease, considered an autoimmune condition, may be linked to poor fertility. Some bacteria or symptomatic sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can impact male infertility. For instance, chlamydia can affect fertility, while studies show bacteria called ureaplasma impact sperm count and quality. Consider getting tested for different forms of bacteria and STIs during fertility checks.

It could be genetics

There are potential reasons that a general blood test cannot uncover. Looking deeper, at a genetic level, doctors can often uncover lesser-known reasons for infertility. Genetic abnormalities such as Y chromosome microdeletions can cause infertility by impacting the production of sperm. This abnormality often shows no symptoms. Klinefelter syndrome, which is an extra X chromosome in men, can directly impact sperm production and quality. Other abnormalities cause sperm to have sperm may have deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation that affects fertilization and embryo development. Specialized testing can reveal the presence of these genetic traits and direct future treatment.

Hormone imbalances from unexpected sources

Several vital hormones play a critical role in sperm production and health. If blood tests reveal deficiencies, these can be linked to male-factor infertility. The challenge arises in finding the cause of the hormone imbalance. Exposure to plastics, pesticides, chemicals at work, and even personal hygiene products contains endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) known to impact fertility. The rise of anabolic steroid use or exogenous testosterone among men is known to impact fertility. Over-the-counter supplements with hidden hormones also impair fertility. The effects can continue long after the individual has discontinued use.

Depression and male fertility

Receiving the appropriate mental health treatment can significantly improve quality of life. At the same time, there are some potential side effects or consequences, particularly when using related medications. Studies show that antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can impact sperm health and libido. There has been a rise in antidepressant use among males, particularly those of reproductive age. These men are more likely to struggle with fertility.

Specific lifestyle choices

Too much of what some would consider a good thing can affect certain aspects of health in the long run. Consider exercise as excessive weightlifting or endurance exercise. While these exercises can build muscle or improve cardiovascular health, there are negative consequences. Significant spikes in cortisol and drops in testosterone can occur. Overtraining these exercises also increases oxidative stress, potentially lowering sperm count and quality. Recreational drug use, like marijuana or vaping, can appear harmless on the surface. Over time, these activities can lead to poor health outcomes and potentially affect reproduction.

Testing, diagnosis, and treatment

Some lesser-known causes can be asymptomatic, leading to an unexplained infertility diagnosis. Men should look into doing a deeper dive into fertility health to find the potential root cause of infertility. Blood tests and semen analysis should reveal the basics, but other health tests should be considered. Look for underlying diseases that are known to impact fertility. A medication review can reveal prescription medications or supplements negatively impacting fertility. Fertility counseling can reveal stress, depression, or specific environmental dangers. A complete picture provides a more accurate plan to improve fertility and increase pregnancy rates. Most treatments involve lifestyle changes, adjustments to medication, hormone therapy, and assisted reproductive technology. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are helpful strategies.

Consider all factors of male infertility

Male infertility can be just as varied and complex as female infertility. Sperm analysis can reveal the reason and possible causes, but even these initial checks can provide little insight. A deeper dive, however, can reveal the real underlying, lesser-known causes. These added details can significantly improve outcomes. Do not give up at the first hurdle. Provide the fertility team with as many details as possible. Request additional tests and screenings. Work with the team to create a unique treatment plan.