Causes of Male Infertility
More than 90% of male infertility cases are due to low sperm counts, poor sperm quality, or both. The remaining cases of male infertility can be caused by a range of conditions including anatomical problems, hormonal imbalances, and genetic defects.Sperm Abnormalities
Sperm abnormalities are a critical factor in male infertility. These abnormalities include:- Low sperm count
- Poor sperm motility (movement)
- Abnormal sperm shape
Risk Factors
- varicocele, an enlarged varicose vein in the spermatic cord that connects to the testicle
- Aging, which can reduce sperm counts and motility and decrease the genetic quality of sperm
- Sexually transmitted diseases, which can cause scarring in the male reproductive system or impair sperm function
- Lifestyle factors such as smoking and substance abuse
- Long-term or intensive exposure to certain types of chemicals, toxins, or medications
Diagnosis
In addition to a medical history and physical exam, specific tests for male infertility include:- Semen analysis to evaluate the quantity and quality of sperm
- Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels
- Imaging tests to look for structural problems
- Genetic testing to identify sperm DNA fragmentation, chromosomal defects, or genetic diseases
