What is the infertility rate in Nigeria?
Infertility affects approximately 1 out of every 6 couples and it has been seen that Male infertility factors contribute to approximately 30% of all infertility cases, accounting for approximately one-fifth of all infertility cases.
What are the main causes of infertility in males?
Male infertility usually occurs when sperm cells are abnormal, the inadequacy of numbers, or when the man has problems ejaculating.
What about abnormal sperm?
Sperm can be considered abnormal when it has a short lifespan or low mobility which is usually caused by inflammation of the testicles, Swollen veins in the scrotum and abnormally developed testicles.
What are the reasons for having a low sperm count?
- A pre-existing genetic condition
- Use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs
- Severe mumps infection after puberty
- Hernia repairs
- Hormone disorder
- Exposure to poisonous chemicals
- Exposure to radiation
- A blockage caused by a previous infection
- Wearing restrictive or tight underwear
- Injury to the groin area
Male infertility can also occur when there are problems with ejaculation, these problems arise when there is premature ejaculation, retrograde ejaculation, erectile dysfunctions and sometimes complications from radiation therapy or surgery.
What are the other causes of male infertility?
- STD’s
- Urinary tract infections
- Certain types of medications
How can male fertility problems be cured?
The first step is to get tested then any of the options listed below can be provided;
- Taking medications to help increase sperm production
- Taking antibiotics to heal an infection
- Taking hormones to improve hormone imbalance
- Avoiding taking long hot showers, using hot tubs or saunas
- Wearing loose underwear
- Supplements
What are the other options for conception in my partner is infertile?
An artificial insemination is an option if the man’s sperm count is low. The sperm is collected through multiple ejaculations and then manually placed in the female’s uterus or fallopian tubes.
In vitro fertilization is another option that can be used to overcome male infertility factors. In this procedure, the sperm and egg are fertilized in a laboratory after which the fertilized egg is placed in the female’s uterus.
If tests show that there is no sperm production or that other related problems are present, donor sperm can be used to help facilitate conception. In this procedure, donor sperm is obtained from a sperm bank and placed inside the female’s uterus or fallopian tubes through artificial insemination.
How Can Male Infertility Be Prevented?
There is usually nothing that can be done to prevent male infertility caused by genetic problems or illness. However, there are actions that men can take to decrease the possibility of infertility;
- Avoid sexually transmitted diseases
- Avoid illicit drugs
- Avoid radiation when possible
- Avoid exposure to toxic substances
- Avoid heavy or frequent use of alcohol
- Observe good personal hygiene and health practices
- Avoid long, hot baths, hot tubs or saunas
- Wear loose-fitting underwear
Do you have any questions, ask us!
References
- Americanpregnancy. Infertility. Accessed on 10th October 2018.