14 Causes and 5 Signs of Male Infertility Every Guy Needs to Know

Male infertility, a complex issue affecting millions, is often a silent struggle for nearly 20-30% of men globally. It encompasses various conditions that hinder a man's ability to impregnate a fertile female partner. This issue arises from multiple reasons that affect either the production or function of sperm. 

Common causes of male infertility include genetic abnormalities, hormonal imbalances, and testicular problems like undescended testicles. Also, heavy drinking, smoking, drug use, and certain medications can diminish sperm quality and quantity. 

By recognising these concerns, men can address infertility, seek a timely diagnosis and explore appropriate treatments to correct physical issues or assisted reproductive techniques to facilitate conception.

But how does a man know when he is infertile? Let’s discuss 14 proven causes that disrupt sperm production, function, and delivery. Also, explore five key warning signs that indicate underlying male fertility issues to help you in early diagnosis. So, keep reading!

Table Of Contents

1. Understanding Male Infertility

2. What Is The Cause Of Male Infertility? 14 Major Reasons

3. How Does A Man Know When He Is Infertile? 5 Common Signs

4. Dietitian’s Recommendation

5. The Final Say

6. FAQs

7. References

Understanding Male Infertility

Scientifically, male infertility is when a man is unable to cause a healthy pregnancy in his fertile female partner after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It is marked by problems with sperm production, quality, or delivery, often showing up as a low sperm count, poor sperm movement, or abnormal sperm shape. These issues can make it hard for sperm to fertilise an egg, leading to challenges in achieving pregnancy.

Consider these major diagnosing male infertility steps:  

• First, a detailed medical history and physical exam help identify underlying problems.
• The main test used is a semen analysis, which looks at sperm count, movement, and shape.
• Other tests include hormone level assessments to check testosterone and other hormones, genetic testing for hereditary factors, and imaging studies like ultrasounds to spot structural issues in the reproductive organs.
• A post-ejaculation urinalysis may also be done to see if sperm is present in the urine, indicating potential ejaculation problems.

Also Read: Here Are 7 Amazing Pumpkin Seeds Benefits For Males!

What Is The Cause Of Male Infertility? 14 Major Reasons

Male infertility can be attributed to various alarming factors, each affecting different aspects of sperm production, function, or delivery. Let’s discuss and understand these proven male infertility causes:

1. Existing Genetic Factors

Certain genetic conditions can significantly impact male fertility. For instance, Klinefelter syndrome occurs when a male has an extra X chromosome, disrupting normal testicular development and leading to reduced sperm production. Another example is Y chromosome microdeletions, where missing segments on the Y chromosome can cause little to no sperm production. These genetic factors are usually diagnosed through genetic testing.

2. Male Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances play a critical role in male infertility. The hypothalamus and pituitary glands regulate testosterone and other hormones necessary for sperm production. Conditions like hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, where the body doesn’t produce enough gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), can result in low testosterone levels and poor sperm production. Hormonal testing can identify these imbalances. You can consider ToneOp Care’s Wheat Grass Powder for hormonal balancing.

3. Testicular Problems

Several testicular problems can lead to male infertility. Undescended testicles (cryptorchidism), varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum), and infections such as orchitis (inflammation of the testicles) can damage the testicular tissue responsible for producing sperm. Physical trauma to the testicles can also impair sperm production. These conditions often need medical diagnosis and treatment.

4. Abnormal Sperm Morphology

Sperm morphology refers to the size plus shape of sperm. Abnormally shaped sperm, such as those with misshapen heads or tails, often have trouble penetrating and fertilising an egg. These abnormalities can result from genetic defects, exposure to environmental toxins, or underlying health issues. Semen analysis can reveal these morphological problems.

Also Read: 7 Recommended Multivitamins For Men To Fulfill Their Nutritional Needs!

5. Poor Sperm Motility

Sperm motility, or the sperm's ability to swim effectively, is crucial for fertilisation. Defects in the sperm's tail (flagellum) can impair movement, often due to genetic factors or damage from infections or environmental exposures. Poor motility can be diagnosed through a semen analysis, which evaluates the movement of sperm.

6. Sperm DNA Damage

Oxidative stress, an imbalance between essential reactive oxygen species (ROS) plus antioxidants in the body, can cause sperm DNA fragmentation. This damage can result from lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, or exposure to environmental toxins. Sperm DNA damage can impair the sperm’s ability to fertilise an egg or lead to poor embryo development, affecting fertility.

7. Sperm Delivery Blockages

Blockages in the male’s vas deferens or epididymis can prevent sperm from being ejaculated. Infections, inflammation, or congenital defects like cystic fibrosis can cause these blockages. Such obstructions can be identified through medical imaging and might require surgical intervention to restore fertility.

8. Sperm Ejaculation Problems

Conditions like retrograde ejaculation, where male semen enters the female bladder instead of exiting through the penis, can hinder fertility. This can result from surgeries, medications, or nerve damage from conditions like diabetes. Treatment often involves addressing the underlying cause or using assisted reproductive techniques.

9. Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices

Lifestyle choices greatly impact male fertility. Smoking introduces toxins that can damage sperm DNA, while an unhealthy diet and regular excessive alcohol consumption cause hormonal imbalances. 

Drug use, such as anabolic steroids and marijuana, can impair sperm production. Obesity is also linked to lower testosterone levels and increased scrotal temperature, both of which reduce sperm quality. 

10. Heavy Metal Exposures

Exposure to pesticides, heavy metals like lead and cadmium, radiation, and industrial chemicals can induce oxidative stress and disrupt endocrine function, reducing sperm quality and count. Avoiding these exposures and following safety guidelines can help mitigate their impact on fertility.

Also Read: Are Digestive Enzyme Supplements Safer Option? Check Out These 5 Benefits!

11. Excessive Heat Exposure

Frequent use of hot tubs, saunas, and tight clothing can increase testicular temperature, negatively affecting spermatogenesis. High temperatures create an environment that is not conducive to sperm production. Reducing heat exposure and wearing loose-fitting clothing can help maintain optimal testicular temperature.

12. Certain Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other infections eventually cause inflammation plus scarring in the reproductive tract, blocking sperm passage and impairing function. Early detection and treatment of infections help to prevent long-term damage to the reproductive system.

13. Underlying Chronic Health Issues

Chronic health conditions can also contribute to infertility. Diseases like diabetes can cause nerve damage affecting ejaculation, while cystic fibrosis can lead to blockages in the vas deferens. Autoimmune disorders might lead to the production of antibodies that attack sperm. Managing these health issues can help improve fertility.

14. Ongoing Medications And Treatments

Certain medications, including some ongoing antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy for cancer, can impair sperm production or cause genetic damage to sperm. Discussing possible side effects with a specialist and exploring alternative treatments can help mitigate these effects.

Also Read: 4 Major Black Seed Oil Benefits For Men's Health And Vitality

How Does A Man Know When He Is Infertile? 5 Common Signs

A man might suspect infertility if he and his partner have been trying to conceive for a year or more without success. However, there are specific signs and symptoms of male infertility. Have a look at how a man can recognise possible infertility problems:

Dietitian’s Recommendation

I recommend specific dietary strategies to support reproductive health and address male infertility concerns. A balanced diet rich in required antioxidants, such as vitamins C plus E, and minerals like zinc and selenium plays a crucial role. These nutrients help protect sperm from oxidative damage, improve sperm motility and morphology, and enhance male fertility.

I emphasise a diet that includes plenty of fruits, fresh vegetables, specific whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while advising against excessive intake of processed foods, sugary beverages, and unhealthy fats, as these can negatively impact sperm quality and production. 

Maintaining a healthy weight through adequate recommended nutrition and regular physical activity is also essential, as obesity is linked to male infertility. Also, I recommend minimising alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking and recreational drugs, as these habits can further impair fertility.

                                                                                          Dt. Aditi Upadhyay

The Final Say

From hormonal imbalances and genetic factors to lifestyle choices and environmental exposures, the potential male infertility causes are diverse. Recognising early infertility warning signs, such as changes in sexual function, testicular abnormalities, or persistent fertility challenges, is essential for timely diagnosis and intervention.

While the journey to parenthood is filled with obstacles for couples facing male infertility, understanding these factors helps you to seek appropriate medical care, explore treatment options, and, ultimately, increase your chances of achieving your family-building goals.