male reproductive problems It often goes unnoticed until the couple faces challenges while trying to conceive. Male fertility is an important part of conceiving; Yet, it often receives less attention than female fertility. Infertility is a shared issue, and it is important to evaluate both partners to identify possible causes. For a successful conception, it is important to know the signs that indicate the need for fertility check-up and early diagnosis and seeking treatment can significantly increase the chances of successful conception. But what are the signs you need to pay attention to?

We caught up with Dr Ila Gupta, Clinical Director and Senior Consultant Reproductive Medicine, Fertility IVF and Fertility Clinic, New Delhi, who shares the signs that are often ignored.

“The demand for male fertility testing not only helps identify underlying health problems but also provides clarity and potential solutions to promote reproductive health. Ignoring these warning signs may delay treatment and reduce chances of conceiving,” said Dr Gupta.

Main Factors to Consider for Male Fertility Checkup

1. Inability to conceive after one year of trying: If it has been more than a year that you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success, it is time to consult a fertility specialist. For couples where the woman is 35 years of age or older, this period is reduced to six months.

2. Medical History: There can be many medical conditions that can affect male fertility. Mumps, a contagious viral infection that occurs after puberty, can affect sperm production. Another common problem that can reduce sperm quality is varicocele, an enlarged vein within the scrotum. Additionally, sexually transmitted infections, if left untreated, can lead to lesions and blockages in the reproductive tract.

3. Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides, heavy metals, and radiation can reduce sperm health.

4. Sexual diseases: erectile dysfunctionPremature ejaculation, premature ejaculation or low sex drive may be a sign of underlying fertility problems. Such issues often indicate hormonal imbalance or other health conditions that can affect sperm production and quality.

5. Hormonal Imbalance: In some cases, reduced facial or body hair growth, breast enlargement or other signs of hormonal imbalance may indicate fertility problems. Hormones like testosterone play an important role in sperm production and any imbalance can hinder this process.

• Semen Analysis: It determines sperm quantity and quality including sperm size, movement and concentration. If the result is abnormal it may indicate a variety of fertility problems, ranging from infection to blockages in the reproductive tract.

• Hormonal testing: Blood tests may be done to detect levels of testosterone and other hormones important for sperm production.

• Genetic testing/DNA fragmentation: In some cases genetic conditions may be the reason behind infertility. The test can identify chromosomal abnormalities or gene mutations that may affect sperm production.

treatment options

Dr. Gupta shares some treatment options that one can consider:

• Change in lifestyle: It is important to improve diet, get regular exercise, quit smoking and reduce alcohol intake to increase fertility.

• Medicines: To correct imbalances that affect sperm production, hormonal treatment may be suggested by your doctor. Additionally, antibiotics may be prescribed for infections, and other medications may address issues such as erectile dysfunction.

• Surgical intervention: To treat conditions such as severe varicocele, surgical correction may be required to improve sperm quality. Sometimes, blockages in the reproductive tract may require surgery to restore normal sperm flow.

• Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART): In cases where natural conception is difficult, ART methods such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), TESA and MicroTESA may be effective. These techniques involve fertilizing the egg outside the body and implanting the embryo into the uterus.

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