Around one-third of infertility cases are due to male infertility. If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, it might be time to make an appointment with a specialist.
Around 15% of couples are unable conceive through sexual activity. There are several types of male infertility issues. Issues with sperm cells are the most common causes of male infertility. For example, if you don’t produce enough sperm, you have a lower chance of conception. Alternatively, if your sperm are abnormally shaped or don’t move correctly, they won’t reach the egg cell or join with it. Other causes of male fertility problems include:
- Varicoceles
- Retrograde ejaculation
- Autoimmune disorders
- Hormonal imbalances
- Chromosomal abnormalities
Additionally, medication for conditions like arthritis, depression, digestive problems, and high blood pressure can interfere with fertility.
Diagnosis: Sperm analysis is the most common test to evaluate male fertility. You provide a sperm sample, and your doctor sends it to a lab where technicians assess the quantity and quality of your sperm. Your doctor might also order blood tests for genetic screening and an evaluation of your hormone levels. In some cases, they might suggest ultrasounds or biopsies to examine your testicles in more detail.
