Male Subfertility

Subfertility is an issue that more and more couples are facing these days. Worldwide, up to 1 in 6 couples have difficulty conceiving. Subfertility or infertility are suspected when a couple has been consistently trying for one year without any successful pregnancy. Up to 50% of the time, the problem lies with the man. 

The common causes for Male Subfertility include:

  • Lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption and excessive stress

  • Chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity

  • Increasing age

Less common causes include:

  • Distended, enlarged veins around the testes known as varicoceles

  • Testosterone Deficiency Syndrome

  • Genetic issues

  • Previous injury, surgery or radiotherapy to the testes

  • Drug-induced eg. past chemotherapy, anabolic steroids or immunosuppressants

How do I assess my fertility?

A Semen Analysis test is performed to investigate for Male Subfertility. This test is an assessment of a man’s sperm quality, and measures a list of parameters including sperm concentration, motility and volume. Depending on your results, your doctor may recommend further investigations such as blood tests and an ultrasound scan of the testes.

The abovementioned causes may cause unsatisfactory semen analysis results such as abnormal sperm motility, reduced sperm concentration or complete absence of sperm, deformed sperm or damaged DNA. All of these negatively impact the chances of a successful conception.

How do I treat Male Subfertility?

Male Subfertility treatment depends greatly on identifying and treating the underlying cause. Other interventions and specific treatments include:

  • Optimising your lifestyle, such as maintaining fitness with regular exercise, Smoking Cessation and reduction of alcohol and caffeine intake

  • Having a balanced diet which includes plenty of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals

  • Male fertility supplements which provide the essential micronutrients needed to improve sperm quality and boost fertility

  • Hormonal therapy 

  • Surgical sperm extraction

Concerned?

Speak to our doctor today if you are facing issues with Male Subfertility or infertility.