Male infertility is on the rise, driven by factors like stress, obesity, poor lifestyle choices, and environmental pollution. These issues negatively impact sperm quality, hormone balance, and overall reproductive health. This trend is especially concerning for couples aged 25-35 trying to conceive. Experts say that early diagnosis, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and reducing stress can significantly improve male fertility.
National Infertility Awareness Week, observed from April 20 to April 26, aims to raise awareness about infertility and the importance of education. Infertility affects both men and women, with male infertility accounting for nearly half of all cases. It refers to a man’s inability to contribute to conception due to problems with his reproductive system.
Dr. Rita Modi, senior IVF consultant at Motherhood Fertility & IVF in Kharghar, highlights the growing concern about male infertility. “Male infertility affects not just the body, but also mental well-being. It can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and a sense of failure, making it difficult for many men to talk about their struggles,” she explains. Dr. Modi shares that in just two months, she has treated 17-18 men, aged 27-35, whose semen reports showed issues related to sperm count or quality.
She advises that seeking medical help for fertility issues is essential. “Doctors can recommend several interventions, such as hormone therapy, sperm retrieval techniques, treatment for underlying health conditions like diabetes or thyroid disorders, and even IVF or sperm freezing after assessing fertility health. A healthy lifestyle that includes eating well, staying active, and avoiding smoking or alcohol can help improve fertility outcomes,” Dr. Modi adds.
Dr. Nisha Pansare, a fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Kharadi, Pune, attributes the rise in male infertility to a mix of lifestyle, environmental, and health-related factors. “Stress, smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and poor dietary choices, including excessive fast food, are all linked to lower sperm count. Environmental pollution and exposure to harmful substances like pesticides and heavy metals also damage sperm quality. Additionally, medical conditions such as hormonal imbalances, diabetes, and infections contribute to male infertility,” Dr. Pansare explains.
She further points out that age plays a role, as sperm quality tends to decline with age. In two months, 5-6 men aged 25-35 have come to me with issues like low sperm count and azoospermia, requiring fertility treatment,” she notes. Dr. Pansare explains that diagnosing male infertility involves a detailed medical history, a physical exam, and a semen analysis to assess sperm count, movement, and shape. Symptoms may include low sex drive, testicular pain or swelling, and hormonal imbalances.
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most effective treatments, where eggs are fertilized with sperm in a lab. Sperm freezing, or cryopreservation, is another option for men with low sperm count or those undergoing other treatments. These techniques offer couples a chance to conceive and start a family.
Dr. Pansare emphasizes the importance of addressing the stigma surrounding male infertility. “Raising awareness through campaigns and breaking taboos around the issue is crucial. Men need to take charge of their reproductive health and seek timely treatment without hesitation,” she concludes.
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