Infertility in Males

Probable Causes

Male infertility can be caused by physiological and lifestyle factors. Some physiological factors include:

• Genetic disorders

• Hormonal imbalances
  Infection (acute and/or chronic infections of the prostate or testicle)

• Anatomic issues (blockages, varicocele, tumors)

• Previous surgery or vasectomy

• Direct injury (testicular or pelvic trauma, heat, irradiation, etc.)

• Indirect injury (radiation therapy, chemotherapy, etc.)

• Obesity

• Diabetes

• Undescended testicles with late repair

Lifestyle Factors

Smoking

Studies suggest that smokers may have lower sperm count than those who don’t smoke. Secondhand smoke may also affect male fertility.

Excessive Heat Exposure

Potentially increased scrotum temperature due to frequent use of saunas or hot tubs may temporarily lower a man’s sperm count. Additionally, anything that even slightly raises scrotum temperature – sitting for long periods, wearing light clothing, or working on a laptop computer – can have a similar effect.

Excessive Alcohol

Alcohol has been shown to lower testosterone levels, lower sperm count, and potentially cause erectile dysfunction. Men with liver disease caused by excessive drinking may also have trouble conceiving.

Stress

Emotional stress disrupts the body’s hormone production, which can affect the production of healthy sperm. Men who feel stressed are more likely to have lower concentrations of sperm in their ejaculate, and the sperm they have are more likely to be misshapen or have impaired mobility. These deficits could be associated with fertility problems.