5 Common Causes of Male Infertility

It’s exciting when you decide you’re ready to have a baby. Unfortunately, that exhilaration can turn to frustration if pregnancy doesn’t happen when you want it most.

If this is happening to you, you’re not alone. Nearly 1 in 7 American couples struggle with infertility. This term describes having frequent, unprotected intercourse for at least 12 months without pregnancy — or up to six months in women 35 or older. 

What can make this even more frustrating is that infertility usually has few other symptoms, aside from the lack of pregnancy. 

When a couple faces fertility challenges, three equally possible factors are at play:

• A male reproductive issue
• A female reproductive issue
• A combination of both male and female reproductive issues

Our team at Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina can help with intimate issues, like male fertility. We see these five common causes of male infertility at our offices in Wilmington and Southport, North Carolina.

1. Sperm disorders

One of the leading causes of male infertility lies in sperm. These issues can vary, from being abnormally shaped, unable to swim, or immature. Perhaps your body doesn’t make enough — or any — sperm. 

Without healthy sperm, the egg can’t get fertilized. And you need at least one functioning testicle to make sperm.

2. Structural problems

Another common cause of male infertility involves structural issues that prevent the flow of semen. Semen is the fluid that carries sperm, and you release it during ejaculation.

Structural problems in the male reproductive tract can occur for several reasons, like genetic defects and scar tissue. Numerous health and medical conditions can also cause structural blockages and infertility.

3. Medical conditions

The list of medical causes for male infertility ranges far and wide, and includes:

• Infections of the epididymis, testicles, and from some STDs
• Undescended testicles
• Varicocele
• Hormone imbalances, including thyroid issues and low testosterone
• Chronic conditions, like diabetes and liver or kidney disease
• Celiac disease
• Taking certain medications
• Tumors

Intimacy issues, like premature ejaculation, painful intercourse, or erectile dysfunction can also impact male fertility.

4. Environmental factors

One common contributor to male infertility that people often overlook involves environmental causes. However, overexposure to several things can affect sperm production or function, such as:

• Industrial chemicals, like pesticides, herbicides, and solvents
• Heavy metals, like lead
• Radiation or X-rays

Overheating the testicles could also impair sperm production and health, like sitting in hot tubs and wearing tight clothing. However, research in these areas is less conclusive.

5. Lifestyle factors

Finally, if you face challenges with your fertility, it’s important to look at your health and lifestyle. 

Believe it or not, everyday choices can take a toll on your testosterone, sperm production, and even your erection. A few common culprits include the use of alcohol, tobacco, or drugs, and being overweight and obese.

Male infertility may be complex, but we can help get to the source of the problem. Once we do, we can work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment strategy to help solve the issue.

Are you struggling to conceive? Contact Urology Associates of Southeastern North Carolina by calling (910) 763-6251 to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced men’s health specialists today.