Male infertility is one issue that men hardly discuss even in their gatherings. Some feel like once they can ejaculate, they are fertile.
Let’s be honest — for many men, fertility feels like a taboo topic. Culturally, people tie fertility to masculinity. So, when there’s a challenge, men often suffer in silence. Also, some others feel they are not the reason even when they have not gone for test.
But, you see, silence won’t solve it. Understanding will. So let’s get to it.
✅ What Is Male Factor Infertility?
Basically, male factor infertility refers to a man’s inability to contribute effectively to conception. It accounts for 40–50% of all infertility cases globally.
Despite this, conversations often focus on women, leaving men misinformed or ashamed.
You see, male factor infertility can be as a result of low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm shape, blockages, hormonal issues, lifestyle habits, or genetic conditions.
Furthermore, a semen analysis is a form of diagnosis, and treatment may involve lifestyle changes, supplements, medications, or assisted reproductive technologies like IVF or ICSI.
🤔 Why Is No One Talking Male Infertility?
In many cultures, fertility is wrongly equated with masculinity.
As a result, male infertility is stigmatised, causing emotional stress, silence, and delayed medical intervention.
But here’s the truth: Infertility is a couple’s issue, and ignoring male factor infertility leaves half the problem untouched.
Are there reasons a man could be infertile?
📊 Common Causes Of Male Infertility
Here’s a breakdown of major culprits:
| Cause | Description |
|---|---|
| Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia) | Fewer than 15 million sperm/mL |
| Poor Motility | Sperm can’t swim effectively |
| Abnormal Morphology | Odd-shaped sperm that can’t fertilize an egg |
| Varicocele | Enlarged veins in the testicles, overheating sperm |
| Hormonal Imbalance | Low testosterone or other hormone disruptions |
| Ejaculatory Issues | Retrograde ejaculation, blockages, etc. |
| Genetic Factors | Klinefelter’s syndrome, Y chromosome microdeletions |
🧪 How Is It Diagnosed?
Basically, the standard test is a semen analysis, which evaluates the volume of ejaculate, sperm count, movement (motility) and shape (morphology).
Other tests may include hormone tests (FSH, LH, testosterone), genetic testing, ultrasound of the scrotum and testicular biopsy.
🛠️ What Can Be Done About Male Infertility?
✅ Lifestyle Changes
Quit smoking and alcohol
Maintain healthy weight
Reduce heat exposure (tight underwear, laptops on lap)
Manage stress
✅ Medical Treatments
Hormonal therapy
Surgery (for varicocele or blockages)
Antibiotics (for infections)
✅ Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
🥦 Can Diet And Supplements Help?
Indeed, diet and supplements can help and this is because they contain certain nutrients that may support sperm health.
Zinc – boosts testosterone and sperm count
CoQ10 – improves motility
Vitamin C & E – antioxidants for sperm DNA integrity
Omega-3 fatty acids – enhances sperm structure
Consult a fertility specialist before starting supplements.
❤️ Emotional Side Of Male Infertility
Men facing infertility often:
Feel inadequate
Struggle with communication
Experience sexual performance anxiety
Avoid seeking help
However, support groups, therapy, and open conversations with partners and professionals make a big difference.
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🔁 FAQs About Male Factor Infertility
Q: Can infertility in men be cured?
A: Some causes are reversible, fertility treatments can also help manage others.
Q: Can a man with zero sperm get a woman pregnant?
A: In some cases, yes—via surgical sperm retrieval and ICSI.
Q: How long should couples try before getting tested?
A: After 12 months of unprotected sex (or 6 months if the woman is over 35), both partners should be evaluated.
🧠 Final Words From So Healthy Nigeria
Male infertility is real, common, and treatable.
Talking about it breaks the stigma and leads to solutions. Sharing the situation with others is the beginning of access to the solution available.
Most importantly, if you’re struggling to conceive, both partners should go for fertility test, get necessary treatment and care.
📍 So Healthy Nigeria is here to help couples take control of their fertility journey naturally and holistically. Share this article to keep the conversation going.