Sperm counts and concentration are down all over the world, according to a new study that is resulting in declined fertility in men and subsequent consequences. It’s to be noted that many infertile couples are likely to have more than one cause of infertility, so it’s best to see a doctor. It might take a number of tests to determine the cause of infertility and in some cases, a cause may never be identified.
Reasons for infertility in men
Studies haven’t yet explained why sperm counts are falling which is the main reason behind male infertility.
Total sperm capacity is determined during fetal development, and exposures to human-made chemicals, stress and poor diet during pregnancy can turn out to be contributing factors.
Environmental exposures of the father before conception can result in poor fetal outcomes. In a man’s adult life, sperm count can be reduced by exposure to harmful pesticides, lack of physical activity, poor diet, smoking and obesity.
Excess weight can also be the factor as it can alter hormone levels, adding more estrogen to the male body. Extra fat around male genitals could increase heat there, which will result in decreased sperm production.
It’s not one thing alone that is causing the drop in sperm levels. The world’s population is carrying more weight, spending more time spent at a computer, eating more processed foods and packing those food in plastic. Any or all of those factors could result in a substantial drop in sperm count.
Diagnosis of male infertility problems
Diagnosing male infertility problems usually involves:
- General physical examination and medical history. This consists of examining genitals and asking questions regarding any inherited conditions, chronic health issues, illnesses, injuries or surgeries that can affect fertility. Your doctor might also want to know about your sexual habits and your sexual development during puberty.
- Semen analysis. Semen samples obtained is sent to a laboratory to measure the sperm content and look for any abnormalities in the shape and movement of the sperm. The lab will also check for signs of problems such as infections.
Often sperm counts fluctuate from one specimen to the next and in most cases, several semen analysis tests are done over a period of time so as to obtain accurate results. If your sperm analysis is found to be normal, your doctor will advise to take thorough testing of your female partner before proceeding with any more male infertility tests.
What can one do to boost fertility?
Men concerned about their fertility should to talk to their doctor and seek his advice. It’s important to be evaluated and have an understanding regarding specific treatments that may help.
Being fit overall is important for reproductive health which is possible through a healthy diet, regular exercise and smoking cessation.
There’s usually a strong link between fertility and health, so anything that’s good for your heart is good for fertility too.
- Alcohol use: Men who are worried about their infertility problems must reduce the usage of alcohol.
- Avoid extreme heat: Heat exposure isn’t good, so it’s best to avoid heat as much as possible and especially avoiding hot tubs and saunas while trying to conceive.
- Taking testosterone: It is not advisable to use testosterone, as it has been tested as a contraceptive, and can reduce sperm production.
Foods that help boost fertility in men
Eggs
Eggs are rich in protein which prevents free radical damage in sperm and thereby improve motility.
Spinach
Spinach rich in folic acid facilitates healthy development of sperms and also reduces abnormal sperms.
Bananas
Bananas are rich in A, B1 and C which can help the body produce healthier sperms.
Walnuts
Walnuts rich in omega 3 fatty acids promotes blood flow to the testicles and also facilitate the production of cell membrane for sperm cells.
Zinc rich foods
Foods rich in barley, beans and red meat are rich in zinc aiding in increased sperm count. Zinc deficiency can even lead to decrease in sperm motility.
Pomegranates
Pomegranates boost sperm count and semen quality and are full of antioxidants that fight free radicals.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain C and substantial amount of lycophene which can boost male fertility.
Treatment for male infertility
An exact cause of infertility cannot be found. Even if an exact cause isn’t clear, your doctor may recommend treatments or procedures that will lead to conception.
In cases of infertility, it’s recommended that your female partner also be checked before reaching a conclusion. There may be specific treatments recommended for your partner to help her conceive. Or, you may also be able to learn that proceeding with assisted reproductive techniques is recommended in your situation.
Treatments for male infertility include:
- Surgery. In cases where sperm are not present in the ejaculate, it can often be retrieved directly from the testicles or epididymis with the assistance of sperm retrieval techniques.
- Treating infections. Antibiotic treatment may help cure an infection of the reproductive tract, but it doesn’t always restore your fertility.
- Treatments for sexual intercourse problems. Medication or counselling can facilitate fertility in conditions such as erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.
- Hormone treatments and medications. Your doctor may recommend hormone replacement or medication in cases where infertility is caused by high or low levels of certain hormones or problems with the way the body uses hormones.
- Assisted reproductive technology (ART). ART treatments consists of obtaining sperm through normal ejaculation, surgical extraction or from donor individuals, depending upon your specific case.
When you make a visit to Goodwill, one of the best IVF center in Calicut, we cover all these issues and assist patients in making an ideal treatment choice considering their situation.
Besides right food habits, a good work life balance, taking up meditation and yoga, seeking professional advice and assistance whenever needed can work wonders on your journey towards embracing parenthood. If you wish to get further assistance regarding your fertility concerns, be sure to contact our team of fertility specialists at one of the best infertility hospital in Kerala.
