14/08/2024
INFERTILITY IN MEN
Nearly 1 in 7 couples is infertile, which means they haven't been able to conceive a child even though they've had frequent, unprotected s*xual in*******se for a year or longer. In up to half of these couples, male infertility plays at least a partial role.
Male infertility can be caused by low s***m production, abnormal s***m function or blockages that prevent the delivery of s***m. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices and other factors may contribute to male infertility.
Symptoms
The main sign of male infertility is the inability to conceive a child. There may be no other obvious signs or symptoms.
In some cases, however, an underlying problem such as an inherited disorder, hormonal imbalance, dilated veins around the testicle or a condition that blocks the passage of s***m causes signs and symptoms. Signs and symptoms you may notice include:
Problems with s*xual function — for example, difficulty with ej*******on or small volumes of fluid ej******ed, reduced s*xual desire, or difficulty maintaining an er****on (erectile dysfunction)Pain, swelling or a lump in the testicle areaRecurrent respiratory infectionsInability to smellAbnormal breast growth (gynecomastia)Decreased facial or body hair or other signs of a chromosomal or hormonal abnormalityA lower than normal s***m count (fewer than 15 million s***m per milliliter of semen or a total s***m count of less than 39 million per ejaculate)When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you have been unable to conceive a child after a year of regular, unprotected in*******se or sooner if you have any of the following:
Er****on or ej*******on problems, low s*x drive, or other problems with s*xual function
Pain, discomfort, a lump or swelling in the testicle areaA history of testicle, prostate or s*xual problemsA groin, testicle, p***s or sc***um surgeryA partner over age 35
