Top 7 Causes for Male Infertility

The treatment of male infertility involves the detection of the underlying factors responsible for it. Identifying the causes of male infertility can help in the effective management of this condition. Here are the top 7 causes of male infertility men must be aware of.

7. Sperm Disorders

The most common cause of male infertility is a low sperm count (oligospermia) or poor sperm motility. These abnormalities could be linked to incorrect lifestyle choices or diseases that affect the production of testosterone and sperms. [1] Smoking cigarettes can also reduce testosterone levels due to which the production of sperms is affected. Hence, men are strongly advised to quit smoking to prevent infertility. [7]

6. Varicocele

Varicocele refers to a condition caused due to the swelling of the veins and stagnation of blood in the scrotum. It can cause infertility by affecting the growth of sperms and blocking blood drainage from the scrotal region. [2]

5. Erectile dysfunctions

Men who suffer from erectile dysfunctions are likely to develop infertility. This condition can reduce their ability to get and maintain an erection thereby preventing intercourse. [3]

4. Premature ejaculation

Premature ejaculation is a type of sexual dysfunction that can affect men’s fertility by reducing their ability to hold the erection for longer. It can prevent the entry of semen and sperms into the uterus of the women thus reducing the chances of conception. [4]

3. Obesity

Obesity or weight gain can reduce the production of testosterone and sperms. It can also contribute to the development of erectile dysfunctions and premature ejaculation thereby causing infertility in men. [5]

2. Immunological factors

Autoimmune disorders can cause infertility in men. It occurs due to the inability of the immune system to identify sperms as the body’s own cells. As a result, the immune cells attack and destroy the sperms resulting in infertility. [6]

1. Side effects of medications

The use of some medications such as antidepressants and anti-diabetic drugs may result in the development of a few side effects causing infertility. These medications may lower testosterone levels and reduce sperm production due to which the men’s fertility is affected. [7]