Male Infertility: Early Signs, Risk Factors, and When to Seek Help

Male Infertility: Early Signs, Risk Factors, and When to Seek Help

Introduction

At New World Fertility, we understand that infertility is often considered a female issue, but did you know that male infertility accounts for nearly 50% of all infertility cases? If you and your partner are struggling to conceive, understanding male infertility symptoms, causes, and treatments can help you take the right steps toward parenthood. This guide will explain everything you need to know in simple terms so that even those with no medical background can understand it.

What is Male Infertility?

Male infertility refers to a man's inability to cause pregnancy in a fertile female due to low sperm count, poor sperm quality, or other reproductive issues. It can be temporary or permanent, depending on the underlying cause.

Early Signs of Male Infertility

Many men do not realize they have fertility issues until they try to conceive. Here are some common early signs of male infertility:

  • Low sperm count – If your sperm count is lower than 15 million sperm per milliliter, conception may be difficult.

  • Erectile dysfunction (ED) – Difficulty maintaining or achieving an erection.

  • Low libido (reduced sexual desire) – A noticeable decrease in interest in sexual activity.

  • Pain or swelling in the testicles – Could indicate infections or other reproductive problems.

  • Abnormal semen color or consistency – Thick, watery, or discolored semen may suggest a fertility issue.

  • Hormonal imbalances – Symptoms such as reduced facial hair or gynecomastia (breast development in men) may indicate low testosterone levels.

Common Causes of Male Infertility

There are several male infertility causes, which can be classified into different categories:

1. Medical Causes

  • Varicocele: Enlarged veins in the scrotum that affect sperm production.

  • Infections: STDs, prostatitis, or mumps can impact sperm health.

  • Ejaculation Disorders: Premature or retrograde ejaculation (semen entering the bladder instead of leaving the penis).

  • Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone levels or thyroid disorders.

  • Genetic Conditions: Klinefelter syndrome, cystic fibrosis, or other genetic disorders.

2. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

  • Smoking and Alcohol: Reduces sperm production and motility.

  • Obesity: Can lower testosterone and increase estrogen levels.

  • Stress: Affects hormone production and sexual function.

  • Heat Exposure: Frequent use of saunas, hot tubs, or tight underwear can impact sperm production.

  • Chemical and Radiation Exposure: Prolonged exposure to pesticides, heavy metals, and radiation may cause infertility.

Types of Male Infertility

Understanding the different types of male infertility can help in seeking appropriate treatment:

  • Oligospermia: Low sperm count.

  • Azoospermia: Absence of sperm in semen.

  • Asthenozoospermia: Poor sperm motility.

  • Teratozoospermia: Abnormal sperm shape.

When Should You See a Male Infertility Specialist?

You should consult a male infertility doctor if:

  • You have been trying to conceive for over 12 months without success.

  • You experience any of the early signs of male infertility mentioned above.

  • You have a history of medical conditions like diabetes, infections, or testicular trauma.

  • You are planning to start a family and want to check your fertility status.

If you are in Delhi, you can visit a male infertility specialist in Delhi for a complete evolutian and explore male fertility treatment at New World Fertility for a complete evaluation and treatment.

Male Infertility Treatment Options

The good news is that male infertility treatment options are available based on the underlying cause. These include:

1. Medications & Hormonal Therapy

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy: For men with hormonal imbalances.

  • Antibiotics: To treat infections affecting sperm health.

2. Surgical Treatments

  • Varicocele Repair: Surgery to correct enlarged veins in the testicles.

  • Sperm Retrieval Procedures: For men with azoospermia (zero sperm count).

3. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)

  • Intrauterine Insemination (IUI): Sperm is directly placed into the uterus.

  • In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Sperm and egg are fertilized outside the body.

  • Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): A single sperm is injected into the egg.

FAQs on Male Infertility

1. Can male infertility be cured?

Yes, in many cases, male infertility can be treated through lifestyle changes, medications, surgery, or assisted reproductive techniques.

2. How do I know if I am infertile?

The only way to confirm infertility is through a semen analysis test conducted by a male infertility specialist.

3. Does age affect male fertility?

Yes, although men can produce sperm throughout their lives, sperm quality declines after age 40.

4. What foods help improve male fertility?

Foods rich in zinc, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D (such as nuts, leafy greens, and fish) can improve sperm health.

5. Is male infertility permanent?

Not always. Many causes of infertility can be reversed with the right treatment.

Final Thoughts

If you suspect male infertility, do not hesitate to seek medical help. With modern advancements in fertility treatments, like IVF Treatment,  many men successfully overcome infertility and become fathers. If you are looking for a male infertility doctor or the best male infertility specialist in Delhi, visit New World Fertility today to start your journey toward parenthood.