Infertility affects approximately 1 out of every 6 couples. An infertility diagnosis is given to a couple who are unable to conceive over the course of one year. When the problem lies with the male partner it is referred to as male infertility. Male infertility factors contribute to approximately 30% of all infertility cases, and male infertility alone accounts for approximately one-fifth of all infertility cases.
There are four main causes of infertility in males:
- A hypothalamic or pituitary disorder (1-2%)
- Gonad disorder (30-40%)
- Sperm transport disorder (10-20%)
- Unknown causes (40-50%)
Much research remains to be performed on the topic of male infertility, as many cases still receive an “unknown cause” diagnosis. Male infertility usually occurs because of sperm that are abnormal, because of inadequate numbers of sperm, or problems with ejaculation.
Sperm can be considered abnormal for two possible reasons: unusually short life span of the sperm and/or low mobility.
Sperm abnormalities may be caused by one or more of the following:
- Inflammation of the testicles
- Swollen veins in the scrotum
- Abnormally developed testicles