Note: The following post is courtesy of our friends at Hera Fertility. Grain Fertility is proud to feature resources and information from trusted sources of information on the different aspects of the fertility treatment process, including male factor infertility. Visit them to get more information about the amazing services they offer to help you on your fertility journey.
Infertility isn't just a challenge couples face; it's a deeply personal journey many of us go through. Often, there's a misconception that infertility issues are mostly on the woman's side, but that's far from the truth. In fact, men are just as likely to contribute to infertility issues. Let’s break down what male infertility is, why it happens, how it's diagnosed, and what can be done to treat it.
What Exactly Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility is when a guy has trouble getting a partner pregnant, usually because of issues with his sperm. It might be there’s not enough sperm, they don’t move the right way, or they're not the right shape. If a couple is trying to conceive and having issues, it’s time evaluate all of the potential causes, including potential male factors. It is amazing how many fertility patients begin treatment without a full evaluation of both partners (if applicable).
Why Does Male Infertility Happen?
Here are a few of the usual suspects:
Varicocele: This is a fancy word for swollen veins in the scrotum. It’s actually the top fixable reason for male infertility.
Infections: Some infections can mess with sperm production or health, or even block their travel route.
Trouble with Ejaculation: Conditions like retrograde ejaculation send sperm into the bladder instead of out the penis during an orgasm.
Immune Problems: Sometimes the body gets confused and attacks sperm as if they were a threat.
Hormone Imbalances: Issues with the hormones that manage sperm production can throw things off.
Lifestyle Choices: Being overweight, smoking, using drugs, taking testosterone and even exposure to environmental toxins like pesticides can impact sperm.
How Do We Figure Out What’s Going On?
Diagnosing male infertility usually involves a few steps:
Check-Up: Your medical history and even a physical exam can reveal your risk for any issues.
Sperm testing and Semen analysis: An important test where a sample of semen is analyzed.
Some tests like Hera Fertility’s sperm test, can be done entirely at home to give you information on the count and motility (the movement of the sperm). A full semen analysis requires the sperm sample to be analyzed in a lab to check the count, motility, and shape of the sperm.
Hormone Tests: These can check hormone levels to see if something’s off.
Genetic Tests: These can show if there are any genetic reasons behind the infertility.
Imaging: Sometimes, doctors use ultrasounds to look for blockages or other physical issues.
What Can Be Done About It?
Treatment depends on the cause, and includes surgery, medications, and assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like IVF. There are lifestyle modifications you can make to increase your fertility.
Tips for Boosting Fertility
A few lifestyle tweaks can make a big difference. A few things you can do to help boost your fertility include:
Stay Healthy: Keeping a healthy weight is crucial.
Eat Smart: Support optimal body function by reducing the intake of synthetic ingredients, refined sugar and processed foods.
Kick Bad Habits: Smoking and heavy drinking are out. They can really hurt sperm quality.
Check Your Meds: Some meds can affect fertility. Always talk to your doctor before stopping or switching any medication.
Keep Cool: Overheating the testicles can reduce sperm production. Avoid hot tubs and opt for looser clothing.
Wrapping Up
Male infertility is complex, but understanding the causes and treatments can empower you to take control and make informed choices. If you're trying to have a baby, contact Hera Fertility to get your sperm test. You never have to leave your house or speak to anyone unless you want to. The convenience and privacy of their male fertility program is designed to ensure you are comfortable and supported in your journey to parenthood.
If you have questions about your own journey, our Patient Empowerment Coaches are available to assist you. Book a 30-minute consultation with a Fertility Registered Nurse to explore how to optimize your fertility safely and effectively, with customized modifications as necessary.
At Grain Fertility, Premium Users have the opportunity to work 1:1 with our dedicated Patient Empowerment Coaches. They will help you prepare for your upcoming consultations with your provider and they will provide resources tailored to your individual needs. Our PEC's are committed to supporting you throughout your fertility journey. You can become a Premium member and take advantage of a risk free two-week trial by signing up today at https://app.grainfertility.com/signup.
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