Often, male infertility is only identified after a couple’s persistent, unsuccessful attempts at conception, but there are 7 key factors to consider.

1. Poor Quality Sperm / Low Sperm Count: Having a low sperm count decreases the odds that one of your sperm will fertilize your partner’s egg, resulting in pregnancy. About 25% of all infertility is caused by a sperm defect and 40-50% of infertility cases have a sperm defect as the main cause, or a contributing cause
2. Obesity: A BMI above 30 can have an impact on sperm quality, because fat deposits can overload and influence the metabolism of androgens (hormones that play a role in male traits and reproductive activity), especially testosterone. This causes significant alterations in sperm development and sperm DNA in the nucleus.
3. Diabetes: Recent studies have shown that diabetes has adverse effects on male sexual and reproductive function, including impaired spermatogenesis, reduced serum testosterone level and semen volume, resulting in low libido and erectile dysfunction, as well as ejaculation difficulties and infertility
4. Smoking, Alcohol and Addictive Substances: Inhaled and addictive substances have a significant, negative effect on sperm because of nicotine and cannabinoid receptors in testicular tissue. Nicotine causes an imbalance in the body, which is called oxidative stress; this influences sperm quality and fertilization potential. Cocaine also distorts sperm development and motility. Stopping smoking and drug use causes reversal of most of the spermatic damages only after several months of discontinuation.
5. Hormonal Imbalance: Hormones play a crucial role in the functioning of the male reproductive system. The proper balance of hormones decides the success of this system. In the absence of adequate production of testosterone or gonadotropins, including luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), infertility may occur in the male body. Hence it is safe to say that hormonal imbalances are related to male infertility.
6. Infections: It is well known that Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), including gonorrhea, chlamydia and ureaplasma can cause male infertility. Genital inflammation produced by these microorganisms contribute to the changes in sperm quality, while severe and chronic cases of these infections can cause obstruction. Any sign of infection should be diagnosed and treated aggressively with antibiotics.
7. Genetic Defects: Single gene defects can lead to health conditions that can cause fertility problems. These conditions include cystic fibrosis, Tay Sachs disease, spinal muscular atrophy, Canavan disease, sickle cell disease, and Thalassemias.

Now, let’s discuss signs that could indicate the potential of experiencing Male Infertility:

1. Changes in sexual desire: A man’s fertility is also linked with his hormone health. Changes in virility, often governed by hormones, could indicate issues with fertility.
2. Testicle pain or swelling: There are several different conditions that could lead to pain or swelling in the testicles, many of which could contribute to infertility.
3. Problems maintaining erection: A man’s ability to maintain an erection is often linked to his hormone levels. As mentioned above, disrupted hormones may result, which could potentially translate into trouble conceiving.
4. Issues with ejaculation: Similarly, an inability to ejaculate is a sign that it might be time to visit a doctor.
5. Small, firm testicles: The testes house a man’s sperm, so testicle health is paramount to male fertility. Small or firm testicles could indicate potential issues that should be explored by a medical practitioner.

Around 15 to 20 percent of couples trying to conceive will experience trouble; the question then lies, who (if not both) is experiencing infertility issues? Female factor infertility is typically to blame 40 percent of the time, while male factor infertility is the cause of issues 30 to 40 percent of the time. A combination of these factors leads to infertility 20 to 30 percent of the time.

Although it is not heavily spoken about, and the conversation is quite taboo, we want to let you know that you are not alone in this fight. In fact, we stand with you, in support and are here as a resource.