Male Infertility: Causes, Treatment and Prevention Infertility affects approximately 1 out of every 6 couples. An infertility diagnosis is given to a couple who are unable to conceive over the course of one year. When the problem lies with the male partner it is referred to as male infertility. Male infertility factors contribute to approximately 30% of all infertility cases, and male infertility alone accounts for approximately one-fifth of all infertility cases. There are four main causes of infertility in males: A hypothalamic or pituitary disorder (1-2%) Gonad disorder (30-40%) Sperm transport disorder (10-20%) Unknown causes (40-50%) Much research remains to be performed on the topic of male infertility, as many cases still receive an “unknown cause” diagnosis. Male infertility usually occurs because of sperm that is abnormal, because of inadequate numbers of sperm, or problems with ejaculation. Sperm can be considered abnormal for two possible reasons: unusually short life span of the sperm and/or low mobility. Sperm abnormalities may be caused by one or more of the following: Inflammation of the testicles Swollen veins in the scrotum Abnormally developed testicles Reasons for a low sperm count or lack of sperm include one or more of the following: 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. Ejaculation problems may include any of the following: Premature ejaculation Retrograde ejaculation, which occurs when the semen is forced back into the bladder Erection dysfunctions Complications from radiation therapy or surgery Other causes of male infertility can include: History of STD’s Urinary tract infections Use of certain types of medications How is male infertility diagnosed? Potential male infertility will be assessed as part of a thorough physical examination. The examination will include a medical history regarding potential contributing factors. Your healthcare provider may use one or more of the following tests to assess fertility: Semen analysis to determine the number and quality of sperm A blood test to check for infections or hormone problems. Hormone levels are just as important in male fertility as they are in female fertility Making a culture of fluid from the penis to check for infections Physical examination of the penis, scrotum, and prostate Semen analysis is the most important part of male fertility testing. Some men find it more comfortable to do semen analysis testing in the privacy of their own homes.Best Fertility Care Centre. Advanced Fertility Care Centre, Ashwini Hospital Moondrumavadi Madurai -07.