Infertility is a prevalent concern impacting both men and women, yet insufficient dialogue persists to dispel growing misconceptions. Here, a doctor addresses and dispels common myths surrounding infertility.
Male infertility garners significant attention and concern, yet discussions on fertility remain somewhat limited. This lack of dialogue contributes to the proliferation of misconceptions, clouding the judgments of many. OnlyMyHealth recently interviewed Dr. Nidhi Singh, a fertility consultant at Nova IVF, Patna, who addresses and dispels five common myths surrounding male infertility, shedding light on the topic.
Myth 1: Male Infertility Is Rare
Dr. Singh emphasizes that infertility is a health concern that can affect both men and women equally. Infertility, defined as the inability to conceive even after one year of unprotected, frequent sexual intercourse, is a significant issue. Research indicates that males are solely responsible for about 20% of infertility cases and contribute to another 30% to 40% of cases. According to the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, one-third of infertility cases stem from male reproductive issues, one-third from female reproductive issues, and one-third from a combination of both or unknown factors.
Myth 2: All Types of Male Infertility Are Easily Treatable
While some instances of male infertility can be addressed through medication or surgical interventions, not all causes are amenable to treatment, as highlighted by Dr. Singh. It’s crucial to seek evaluation if conception hasn’t occurred after a year of regular sexual intercourse. If semen analysis reveals abnormalities, consulting an infertility specialist and adhering to their guidance is essential.
Dr. Singh notes, “Inferior semen quality, such as Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OATS), may indeed necessitate IVF for achieving conception.”
Myth 3: Age Doesn’t Influence Male Infertility
Age is undeniably a factor that heightens the risk of infertility. Men between the ages of 35 and 40 commonly encounter a decline in sperm count.
Dr. Singh emphasizes, “Male fertility diminishes with age. While semen reports may not exhibit significant changes or alarming indications, the genetic quality and fertilization potential of sperm undoubtedly diminish with age, potentially hindering conception.”
Myth 4: Testosterone Supplements Can Increase Sperm Count
Testosterone is a crucial hormone in sperm production, playing a significant role in male fertility. However, contrary to common belief, testosterone injections, supplements, or steroids can actually be detrimental to fertility and may result in reduced sperm counts. Dr. Singh warns that their use can interfere with the body’s natural testosterone production, potentially leading to infertility.
Myth 5: Infertility and Impotence Are Synonymous
Being infertile and impotent are distinct conditions. Infertility denotes the inability to reproduce, while impotence, or erectile dysfunction, refers to difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse, clarifies Dr. Nidhi. Impotence relates to sexual dysfunction, whereas infertility involves insufficient sperm production necessary for conception.
Lowering the Likelihood of Male Infertility
Reducing the Risk of Male Infertility
To minimize the likelihood of fertility issues, it’s crucial to identify and address potential risk factors, such as:
1. Tobacco use and smoking
2. Alcohol consumption
3. Use of certain illicit drugs
4. Being overweight
5. History of certain infections
6. Exposure to toxins
7. Wearing tight underwear or exposure to extreme temperatures
8. Testicular trauma
9. Poor lifestyle habits and disrupted sleep patterns
Preventive measures include:
1. Quitting smoking
2. Limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption
3. Abstaining from illicit drug use
4. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise
5. Avoiding tight clothing or underwear
6. Managing stress effectively
7. Minimizing exposure to toxins and environmental pollutants
8. Regular exercise routine
9. Consider semen freezing for preservation purposes
10. Incorporating zinc, vitamin D, lycopene, selenium, and folate-rich foods into your diet.
Conclusion
Understanding the causes of infertility and evaluating potential risk factors are crucial steps in addressing this issue. Engaging in open discussions, consulting healthcare professionals regardless of personal fertility status, and educating oneself about fertility can help combat misinformation and dispel myths surrounding this topic.