Anguilla, like many other countries, has men with male infertility. It is estimated that approximately 15 percent of couples are infertile. In about half of these couples, male infertility plays a role. Not being able to conceive a child can be stressful and frustrating, but a number of male infertility treatments are now available and couples should seek professional help.
What causes male infertility?
The term infertility is used when couples are unable to conceive a child even though they have had frequent, unprotected sexual intercourse for a year or longer. Many individuals always assume that the problem lies with the female, but in 50 percent of the cases the problem lies with the man.Male infertility is a complex problem.Male infertility is mostly caused by men producing too few sperm or sperm that do not work properly (i.e. they do not swim as well as they should, or when they meet an egg they don’t fertilize it as they should). Male infertility is therefore due to low sperm production, misshapen or immobile sperm, or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices and other factors can play a role in causing male infertility.
Other factors related to male infertility
A number of risk factors are linked to male infertility. These include the following:
• Smoking tobacco
• Using excessive alcohol
• Using certain illegal drugs
• Being overweight
• Having certain past or present infections
• Being exposed to toxins
• Overheating the testicles
• Having a prior vasectomy or vasectomy reversal
• Taking certain medications or undergoing medical treatments such surgery or radiation used for treating cancer
• Performing certain prolonged activities such as bicycling or horseback riding, especially on a hard seat or poorly adjusted bicycle
How is male infertility diagnosed?
When a couple is having problems getting pregnant we often see the woman. It is best for both partners to see the doctor together. Many men are reluctant to see a doctor, but a full history and examination is needed for the male and various tests should be done. The main test for male fertility is called “semen analysis.” A man provides a sample of semen to be examined under the microscope to check the number of sperm and also some aspects of their quality (i.e. how well they swim and their size and shape). It is important that the man abstains from sex or masturbation for two to five days before this test is carried out. It is also important that this is carried out by a proper laboratory. Other tests might be needed if required.
Treatment
Once a diagnosis is made, various treatment options are discussed with the couple. If an underlying problem is found, your doctor will treat this. Various lifestyle changes might be recommended. Various treatments are available. In vitro fertiliatistion (IVF) might be and option. If the man is producing no sperm then, typically, this means that he will have to consider using the sperm from a donor. Although in some very rare cases, if this is because of a hormone production problem, it can sometimes be corrected.In all cases of infertility, the female partner also will need to be checked and may need treatment. In some cases, treatment of the female partner may help compensate for male fertility problems. In other cases their might be a minor problem in both male and female partners and treatment of both might lead to success.
Can male infertility be prevented?
Many types of male infertility are not preventable. Your doctor might recommend ways to improve fertility and adopt certain lifestyle changes. The following will go a long way in preventing male infertility:
• Do not smoke.
• Limit or abstain from alcohol.
• Avoid illegal drugs (marijuana has been shown to damage sperms).
• Avoid obesity.
• Reduce stress.
• Avoid exposure to pesticides, heavy metals and other toxins.
Though the risk is not conclusive, if you are an avid cyclist, consider using a gel saddle and a full-suspension bicycle. It may also help to avoid wearing very tight fitting clothing for long periods of time.
Conclusion
Male infertility is a factor in 50 percent of couples who are unable to conceive and produce a healthy baby. It is a very complex disorder and can be very embarrassing and frustrating to the man. Various treatment options are now available – including the use of assisted fertilisationtechniques for men with fertility problems.Coping with infertility can be difficult, and couples should seek support if necessary.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr Brett Hodge is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in the Johnson Building in The Valley.
