Author: Olivia Macor, BASc (Candidate)
Reviewed by: Dahlia Abou El Hassan, MScFN, RD
Infertility affects millions globally, and in nearly half of cases, male factors contribute to the issue. Male infertility is often due to health conditions or structural problems that can impact fertility in various ways. Here’s a look at some common male infertility issues and how they affect reproductive health.
1. Sperm Production Problems
Oligospermia (Low Sperm Count): This condition is when a man produces fewer sperm than normal, reducing the likelihood of fertilization.
Azoospermia (No Sperm in Semen): This means there is no sperm present in a man’s semen. It can result from blockages, hormonal issues, or genetic factors. Sometimes, sperm can be retrieved from the testicles for assisted reproduction.
Asthenozoospermia (Low Sperm Movement): Sperm that don’t swim well, also called low motility, may struggle to reach and fertilize an egg, making conception more difficult.
Teratozoospermia (Abnormal Sperm Shape): When sperm have abnormal shapes—like double heads or tails—it reduces their ability to fertilize an egg successfully.
2. Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones control sperm production, so hormonal imbalances can significantly affect fertility.
Hypogonadism (Low Testosterone): Testosterone is essential for sperm production, so low levels can reduce sperm count.
Hyperprolactinemia (High Prolactin): When prolactin levels are too high, testosterone can be suppressed, which can negatively impact sperm production.
Pituitary Gland Disorders: The pituitary gland releases hormones that control reproductive function. When this gland doesn’t work properly, it can disrupt sperm production.
3. Genetic Factors
Genetic issues can reduce sperm production or create structural problems affecting fertility.
Klinefelter Syndrome: This genetic condition means a man has an extra X chromosome, which can lower testosterone levels and sperm production.
Y-Chromosome Microdeletions: Small missing parts of the Y chromosome can lead to low sperm counts or azoospermia, as these regions are important for sperm production.
Cystic Fibrosis: Many men with cystic fibrosis lack the vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm), causing infertility, although they may still produce sperm in the testicles.
4. Physical and Structural Issues
Certain structural problems can block sperm from moving into the semen, impacting fertility.
Varicocele: Enlarged veins in the scrotum (varicocele) can interfere with testicular function, leading to reduced sperm quality and count.
Blockages: Obstructions in the tubes that carry sperm, such as the vas deferens or epididymis, can prevent sperm from mixing with semen. These may result from infections, surgery, or birth conditions.
Undescended Testicles: When a baby boy’s testicles don’t move into the scrotum, it can affect sperm production and fertility later in life.
5. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Daily habits and environmental exposure can impact sperm quality and fertility.
Substance Use: Smoking, drinking heavily, and drug use can harm sperm production, reducing count, movement, and shape.
Exposure to Toxins: Pesticides, chemicals, and heavy metals in the workplace or environment can reduce sperm quality over time.
Activity Level: Lack of physical activity can reduce hormone levels and sperm quality.
When to Get Help
If you're concerned about infertility, see a healthcare provider or a dietitian. They can help with testing, and diagnosis, and offer advice on nutrition and lifestyle changes that may improve fertility. Understanding and addressing these issues can be a key step toward your goal of starting a family.
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