Let's explore male infertility

Male infertility is a health issue in men that affects their female partners' potential to conceive. Some men are more likely to experience infertility than others. This includes men who are 

• Aged and obese

• Exposed to radiation

• Exposed to toxins like lead, calcium, pesticides, or mercury.

• A regular consumer of tobacco, marijuana, or alcohol

• Exposed to the heat that raises the temperature of testes

• Having a history of undescended testicles

• Having a history of varicoceles, which are widened veins in the scrotum

The "male factor" infertility contributes to about one-third of the cases, and most often, the primary cause of the problem is in the process of either making or moving the sperm.

• Varicocele — It's a condition where the bulging of veins above the testicle happens, and it's known to be one of the most common and correctable conditions of male infertility.

• Azoospermia: This is a condition related to a man's inability to produce healthy sperm.

• Oligospermia: It can be described as producing poor-quality sperms.

• Malformed sperm: Sperm that cannot live long enough to fertilize the egg.

• Some medical conditions: Examples include diabetes, some autoimmune disorders, and some infections.

In some cases, such problems can be reversed, but only with the help of a proper evaluation by an andrologist.

• General physical examination and medical history

• Semen analysis

• Ultrasound

• Hormone testing

• Genetic tests

• Specialized sperm function tests

This ultimately depends upon what is causing infertility. Most of the problems can be fixed with drugs or minor surgeries, which would eventually help the man's female partner conceive naturally.

• Surgery

• Treating infections

• Hormone treatments and medications

• Assisted reproductive technology (ART)

Remember that almost one-third of the men attempting to start a family often have infertility. You are not alone in your struggle. Luckily, with the help of medical advancements, almost 90% of all infertile men can have their genetic child. A wide range of personalized treatments is available these days to overcome the male factor infertility issue in most cases. Starting to lead a healthy lifestyle can help you and other medical interventions to cope with this issue. Never hesitate to consult your doctor if you and your partner haven't been able to conceive after a year of unprotected sex because starting a family should never be too late!