6 Reasons Your Man May Not Be Fertile

Male infertility plays a vital role in many couples' ability to conceive. It's a misconception that fertility is a woman's issue, while nearly half of all fertility problems arise from factors related to men. 

Male infertility is a medical condition that makes a man unable to fertilize an egg, even if the woman is fertile. While it's a prevalent issue that affects approximately 2.5 to 12%  of men across the globe, male infertility often remains under-discussed and misunderstood.

The man must produce functional sperm in sufficient numbers to reach and fertilize an egg. Any disruptions or abnormalities in this process can lead to infertility.

The underlying reasons for male infertility vary from physical to hormonal and even lifestyle factors. 

At Dragon Healthcare Services and Med Spa, Joseph Dragon, FNP-BC, and our dedicated team of professionals in Springville, Utah, are committed to addressing male infertility by offering thorough diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. 

Understanding the root causes, whether they are related to sperm count, physical abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, or lifestyle choices, is essential for effective treatment.

This blog delves into six prevalent reasons for male infertility and highlights potential solutions.

Low sperm count

Low sperm count reduces the ability to fertilize an egg. Several factors can contribute to low sperm count, including hormonal imbalances where the glands that produce hormones affecting sperm count malfunction. 

Genetic factors may also play a role, with certain inherited disorders causing sperm production problems. Lifestyle choices, such as drug use, tobacco smoking, and excessive alcohol, can also lead to decreased sperm count. 

Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying causes, like medications to balance hormones or lifestyle changes.

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) hinders men’s ability to achieve or maintain an erection suitable for intercourse. Causes of ED vary, ranging from physical health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity to psychological factors such as stress and anxiety. 

Managing ED often requires a combination of lifestyle changes, counseling, prescription medications, or even surgical interventions in more severe cases.

Thyroid problems

The thyroid has a direct impact on fertility. An overactive or underactive thyroid can disrupt the hormones necessary for sperm production. Treating thyroid-related infertility involves diagnosing and treating the specific thyroid problem with medications or other therapies to restore normal thyroid function.

Varicocele

Varicocele is a condition marked by the enlargement of veins within the loose bag of skin that holds the testicles. It's one of the most common but reversible causes of male infertility. Surgery to seal off the affected vein can often restore normal sperm function, enhancing fertility.

Lifestyle factors

Daily habits and lifestyle choices can have significant effects on male fertility. Factors such as weight management, tobacco and alcohol consumption, exercise habits, and overall diet can be either beneficial or detrimental. Positive changes in these areas can improve fertility.

Medication and treatments

Some prescription medications and medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, can negatively affect male fertility. In such cases, fertility may be temporary or permanently reduced. 

Understanding the complexities of male fertility is the first step toward effective treatment and family planning. From low sperm count to lifestyle choices, many factors can influence your man’s ability to conceive. 

At Dragon Healthcare Services and Med Spa, our team of professionals is ready to help him diagnose and treat these issues, providing compassionate and individualized care. Schedule an appointment today or call 385-685-5114.