Male infertility refers to the inability of a couple to achieve pregnancy due to problems related to sperm quality. These problems may include reduced volume, poor motility, abnormal morphology or other abnormalities that have been extensively studied in recent years.
The causes of male infertility can be multiple, such as hormonal imbalances, infections, injuries or environmental factors such as stress, diet and exposure to toxic substances. Infertility can have serious emotional consequences for the individual, affecting their psychology and their relationship with their partner, causing anxiety and worries about the future.
Causes of male infertility
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Reduced sperm volume
The volume of sperm secreted during ejaculation can be very small, affecting the chances of fertilisation.
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Poor sperm motility (asthenospermia)
The reduced ability of sperm to move properly reduces the chances of them reaching the egg and fertilising it.
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Abnormalities in sperm morphology (teratospermia)
The presence of abnormal sperm can affect their ability to enter the egg.
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Hormonal disorders
An imbalance in hormones, such as testosterone, FSH and LH, can affect sperm production and quality.
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Blockages or damage to the reproductive system
Conditions such as varicocele, infections or injuries to the reproductive system can cause blockage or damage to the ducts that carry sperm.
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Genetic factors
Certain genetic conditions and chromosomal abnormalities can affect sperm production.
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Infections and inflammations
Infections that affect the reproductive system, such as epididymitis or prostatitis, can reduce sperm quality.
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Environmental factors
Exposure to chemicals, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug use, and high temperatures (e.g., frequent exposure to hot baths or hot tubs) can reduce sperm quality.
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Bad lifestyle habits
Poor diet, lack of exercise, excessive stress and being overweight can affect a man's reproductive health.
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Age
Although male fertility is not as strongly affected by age as female fertility, over time sperm quality can decline, especially after the age of 40.
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Treatments for male infertility
Ormonotherapy
Hormone therapy is an effective treatment for male infertility caused by hormonal imbalances. Approximately 2% of male infertility cases are due to hormonal problems.
Scientific studies show that 50% to 70% of patients experience improved sperm production and quality after hormonal therapy.
Despite the positive results, hormonal therapy does not guarantee pregnancy success in all cases, so alternative treatments may also be required.
Assisted Reproduction (IVF)
IVF is particularly useful in the treatment of male infertility, especially when there are problems with sperm quality, such as low sperm count or reduced motility. In these cases, the technique allows for the collection and culture of eggs and sperm in an external environment in order to achieve fertilisation. By using this method, problems such as low sperm count or reduced motility can be overcome, ensuring a higher chance of successful conception.
ICSI Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection
ICSI is an advanced assisted reproductive technique that has revolutionised the treatment of male infertility. Unlike conventional IVF, ICSI allows for the fertilisation of an egg with a single sperm, increasing success rates in cases of low sperm count or quality.
Sperm Donation
Sperm donation is a therapeutic option for cases where conception is not possible using the patient's sperm. Approximately 5% of couples seeking assisted reproduction clinics turn to sperm donation.
The success rate of artificial insemination with donor sperm is about 60% in women under 35 years old.
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