What Causes Male Infertility?

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For couples trying to have children, infertility can be an issue that causes a significant amount of anxiety. There are several reasons that men experience infertility, which can be related to sperm production. Sperm is produced in the testicles then stored in the epididymis above each testicle. If male hormones are working correctly, the sperm is delivered through the penis at the time of ejaculation. There are a few reasons as to why a man might be infertile.

Low Sperm Count

Low sperm count can be caused by:

  • Hormone problems
  • Genetic abnormality
  • Medications
  • Chemotherapy
  • Infection
  • Undescended testicle
  • Varicocele (bulging veins above the testicle, the most common treatable cause)

There are many products on the market that claim to increase sperm count, however not all sperm count issues are treatable. Discuss your low sperm count with Dr. Miller to diagnose the cause and to see what treatment may be available.

Other Infertility Issues

Low sperm count is not always the cause of male infertility. Some men produce the appropriate amount of sperm, but the sperm do not get delivered properly to the penis. Causes for this problem can be:

  • Retrograde ejaculation (into the bladder instead of the penis)
  • Absence of the vas deferens
  • Obstruction between testicles and penis
  • Antisperm antibodies

Depending on the reason for male infertility, surgery is one solution. Surgery can repair blockages or obstructions. Another solution is to treat hormonal imbalances. Improving overall health through proper diet and exercise can improve sperm count and delivery. However, a physical examination and testing the semen are the only ways to determine the cause and treatment of male infertility.

Supplements and Male Fertility

Some male fertility problems cannot be resolved through surgery, medication, or hormone replacement. Most nutritional supplements cannot help in male fertility either and are deemed unsafe. In fact, taking additional testosterone or any androgen is harmful to male fertility. While a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition are helpful for fertility, it is difficult to solve every cause of male infertility.

Dr. Scott Miller can help you with fertility and answer any questions you may have. Call (404) 705-5201 to set up an appointment today.