If you suspect male infertility, what are the signs and causes? Here you’ll find the answers, along with recommended methods for diagnosing male infertility.
For married couples who have lived together for years but still don’t have children, it may signal infertility. Medical evaluation is needed to identify the cause and plan treatment for subfertility.
Therefore, to build a clearer understanding of infertility—especially in men—this article explains common causes and how to check for early signs.
What causes infertility?
Male infertility can result from many factors. The most common include:
Advancing age
From about age 40 onward, male sex hormones decline, which can reduce both sperm count and sperm quality.
Obesity
Excess body weight or obesity can impair reproductive function and reduce fertility.
Smoking
Nicotine increases free radicals that damage cells and body systems, including the male reproductive system, and lowers sperm quality and count.
Alcohol consumption
Alcohol interferes with absorption of vitamins and minerals, affecting reproductive efficiency and reducing the number of healthy sperm.
Caffeine-containing drinks
Beverages with caffeine, such as tea or coffee, can negatively affect the reproductive system and reduce sperm quantity.
Abnormalities of the reproductive organs
Structural problems in the reproductive tract—such as abnormalities of the vas deferens—can cause infertility.
Hormonal imbalance affecting sperm production
Male sex hormones play a key role in regulating sperm (and egg) production. Imbalances can lead to infertility.
Viral infections and illness-related side effects
Certain infections, especially those involving the reproductive tract, can impair fertility. Some illnesses and their treatments may also contribute to subfertility.
History of severe injury
Serious trauma affecting reproductive organs or nearby areas may lead to male infertility.
What does male infertility look like? What should you look for?
If a couple wonders whether the male partner is infertile, note that infertility usually can’t be identified by appearance alone. A semen analysis is required to assess sperm number and concentration.
How to evaluate male infertility
There are several ways to evaluate male infertility, but the most accurate and widely used test is semen analysis interpreted by a specialist. The analysis assesses:
- Semen volume — the amount ejaculated
- Sperm count — the number of sperm per milliliter of semen
- Sperm motility — how well the sperm move
- Sperm morphology — the physical shape and structure of the sperm
Preparation steps before a semen analysis
- Before undergoing semen analysis, prepare as follows:
- Get adequate rest before the test day.
- Abstain from sex or ejaculation for at least 2–3 days before the test.
Steps during semen analysis
- Collect the sample: the patient ejaculates into a sterile container provided by the hospital.
- Submit the container to staff for laboratory analysis.
- Consult the physician for results. If abnormalities indicate infertility, discuss a treatment plan for subfertility.
Semen parameters that indicate infertility
Indicators suggesting male infertility include:
- Semen volume less than 1.5 milliliters per ejaculation
- Sperm count below 15 million per milliliter, or no sperm in the semen
- Total motility under 32% of all sperm; high-quality sperm move rapidly and forward in a straight line
- Normal morphology in fewer than 4% of sperm; normal sperm have an oval head, midpiece, and a straight, long tail
Male infertility has many possible causes. If you’re unsure about your fertility—or if you’ve had regular unprotected sex for 12 months without conceiving—seek evaluation. You can consult a urologist or an obstetrician gynecologist at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Synphaet Ramintra Hospital. Book online or ask for more information at 02-793-5000
