Understanding the Other Half of the Fertility Equation
When a couple faces difficulty conceiving, the focus often turns to the woman. But in reality, male factors contribute to nearly 40–50% of infertility cases. The good news is — many causes of male infertility are diagnosable and treatable.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s fertility clinic in Lucknow, we offer comprehensive evaluations for both partners, creating a supportive environment where men feel heard, respected, and informed about their reproductive health.
Let’s explore the most common causes of male infertility and the treatment options available to help couples achieve their dream of parenthood.
What Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility refers to a man’s inability to cause pregnancy in a fertile female partner, often due to problems with sperm production, function, or delivery.
Signs are subtle and may include:
- No obvious symptoms
- Trouble conceiving after a year of trying
- Low libido or sexual dysfunction
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
- History of infections or surgeries
Common Causes of Male Infertility
🧬 1. Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)
One of the most frequent findings in male infertility is low sperm concentration — meaning fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen.
Possible causes include:
- Hormonal imbalance
- Testicular damage or varicocele
- Stress and lifestyle factors
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Heat exposure or tight clothing
🏊 2. Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenospermia)
Even if the sperm count is normal, sluggish or poorly moving sperm may not reach the egg.
This may result from:
- Infection
- Excessive heat
- Smoking, alcohol, or drug use
- Oxidative stress
🧪 3. Abnormal Sperm Shape (Teratospermia)
Misshapen sperm may not penetrate the egg effectively. This can happen due to:
- Genetic issues
- Exposure to toxins
- Chronic illness or hormonal problems
đź’‰ 4. Hormonal Imbalance
Hormones like testosterone, FSH, and LH regulate sperm production. An imbalance — whether due to obesity, thyroid disorders, or pituitary problems — can reduce fertility.
⚕️ 5. Varicocele
A varicocele is an enlargement of veins in the scrotum, which can raise testicular temperature and affect sperm quality. It is one of the most common treatable causes of male infertility.
🔬 6. Obstruction or Absence of Vas Deferens
Blockages in the ducts that carry sperm can prevent sperm from being present in semen. This may be congenital or acquired (due to infections, trauma, or surgery).
🧫 7. Infections
STIs, mumps orchitis, or urinary tract infections can affect sperm production and delivery.
🧍 8. Lifestyle & Environmental Factors
Factors that negatively impact male fertility include:
- Smoking, alcohol, and drug use
- Exposure to chemicals, heavy metals, or radiation
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Chronic stress and sleep deprivation
- Obesity and poor nutrition
Diagnosis: The First Step Toward Treatment
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s infertility clinic in Lucknow, we recommend:
- Semen analysis (first and most crucial test)
- Hormonal profile (FSH, LH, testosterone, prolactin)
- Scrotal ultrasound (to check for varicocele or abnormalities)
- Genetic testing (in severe cases or when sperm count is zero)
- Infection screening
Each diagnosis is handled with privacy, respect, and clear communication.
Treatment Options for Male Infertility
🥗 1. Lifestyle Modifications
The first line of improvement often includes:
- Quitting smoking or alcohol
- Improving diet and fitness
- Managing stress
- Wearing loose, breathable clothing
- Maintaining a healthy weight
These changes alone can improve semen parameters within 3–6 months.
đź’Š 2. Medications & Supplements
Based on the diagnosis, doctors may prescribe:
- Hormone therapy (for imbalances)
- Antioxidants & vitamins (zinc, CoQ10, vitamin C, vitamin E)
- Antibiotics (if infection is present)
We offer custom supplement plans tailored to sperm health.
🔬 3. Surgical Treatments
- Varicocelectomy for treating varicoceles
- Sperm retrieval techniques like TESA or PESA when sperm is not found in semen
- Surgical correction of blockages
These are minimally invasive procedures with high success rates.
🧫 4. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)
In cases where natural conception is not possible, ART helps couples move forward.
- IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) – suitable for mild male factor issues
- IVF with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) – used when sperm count, motility, or morphology is severely affected
- Donor sperm – used when sperm retrieval isn’t successful
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s fertility clinic, we provide ethical, step-wise guidance, supporting couples emotionally and medically.
Final Thoughts: Male Fertility Matters
Male infertility is more common than people think — but it’s nothing to be ashamed of. With the right diagnosis and care, many men go on to father healthy children.
At Dr. Richa Gangwar’s clinic in Lucknow, we approach fertility treatment with compassion, science, and respect for your emotional journey. Whether you’re seeking answers, treatment, or hope — we’re here to walk beside you.
