Infertility affects millions of individuals and couples each year. Yet, many misconceptions still exist, particularly when it comes to male fertility. Male fertility expert and professor of urology in the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Urology, Peter Kolettis, M.D., offers several important factors to consider for those dealing with fertility issues.
Statistics over stigma
One of the most important factors to consider when understanding male infertility is unlearning the stigmas around fertility. Many often regard infertility as only a “woman’s problem,” which Kolettis says may be an impacting factor in many couples’ pregnancy journeys.
“About half of couples that are infertile have male factors involved,” he said.
Kolettis also says, in men dealing with low testosterone, infertility is often a fear. However, low testosterone does not directly cause men to be infertile.
“In fact, testosterone treatment may cause infertility by decreasing sperm production,” Kolettis said.
Lifestyle matters
Kolettis says maintaining a general healthy lifestyle is critical in managing fertility issues.
“Smoking, alcohol and recreational drugs can all decrease a man’s fertility,” Kolettis said.
Prioritizing a healthy diet with consistent exercise is a general way men can work to mitigate fertility issues. Limiting and preventing the development of any comorbidities may also help.
Treatment options
Fertility is not a one-size-fits-all for every couple. However, Kolettis suggests that, if a couple has been unable to have a pregnancy after one year, that is general time frame to seek secondary opinions and evaluations.
“If the man’s partner is in her mid-30s or if there are known prior risk factors such as testicular problems or prior cancer treatment, the couple can seek evaluation and treatment sooner than a year.”
A semen analysis is often the first measurement of a male’s fertility status.
“A semen analysis gives us an idea of a man’s fertility potential,” Kolettis said. “If motile or moving sperm are present, then pregnancy is possible.”
If the man is found to be the one with complications, Kolettis says, there are treatment options available that may improve the quantity and quality of viable sperm.
“Varicocele treatment is one example of a treatment option available that can improve sperm count in some cases,” Kolettis said.