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Male Infertility
Infertility is when a couple fails to conceive after trying for a year. This lack of conception can be due to male infertility or female infertility. Only around 40 percent of the cases of infertility are caused from the men's side.
Most of the cases of male infertility are due to a slow sperm count (oligospermia). However when discussing male infertility there are other issues that need to be taken into consideration:
Age - As a man ages, the quality and quantity of the sperm may decline making it harder to fertilize the female egg. In fact, the body starts decreasing in sperm production after age 25, although some men remain fertile up to their 60's and 70's. The age associated problems related to the sperm are usually; irregular sperm shape and movement, sperm gene defects, producing no sperm (azoospermia), or a low sperm count (oligospermia).
Lifestyle - The lifestyle could have a temporary effect on the quality of the sperm. Engaging in risky behaviors such as smoking cigarettes or marijuana, heavy alcohol use, and taking illegal drugs can cause a temporary effect on the men's fertility.
Environmental issues - Some scientists claim to have found a link between environmental toxins, like pesticides and lead, and some cases of infertility or impotence.
Health issues - There are certain male health issues that influence fertility. Some of the most common health problems are Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD), some surgery or infection in the Prostate, genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis, diabetes and more. In most cases a doctor can find a solution to the health induced male infertility.
Medications - Some prescription medicines that men take several health problems can cause some temporary infertility. Check out the side effects of the drugs you may be taking and speak to your doctor for further advice.
Stress - High levels of stress can cause a loss of libido and problems with conception.
There are many forms of treatment for male infertility but the treatment depends on what is causing the infertility or the impotence. A doctor will be able to diagnose and effectively treat each case individually. Most cases of treatment are successful!
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