There are many different factors that can contribute to infertility. Some of the more well-known causes include things like cancer. Chemotherapy, for example, can damage the inside of the testicles and lead to a lower sperm count. However, there are other less well-known reasons that can make it difficult for a couple to conceive.
If a man’s sperm count is low, it decreases the odds of fertilization. Low sperm count can be caused by physical damage, such as a blow to the scrotum, or by medical conditions like thyroid trouble or sexually transmitted diseases.
Lifestyle choices like alcohol abuse can also lead to infertility because it causes problems with the reproductive system in both men and women.
If a sperm count is too low, it can make it difficult to conceive. On the other hand, if a sperm count is too high, it can weaken the sperm. The acidity of a woman’s vagina can kill sperm if the pH balance is off.
If you and your partner are trying to conceive, it’s important to be aware of the role that sperm motility plays. Sperm motility is the ability of sperm to swim forward. If a sperm has difficulty swimming, it may have trouble reaching and fertilizing the egg. Sperm cells have three main parts: the head, the middle, and the end or tail. If the head or tail is not formed correctly, this can interfere with the sperm’s ability to swim correctly and may lead to infertility.
If the sperm isn’t shaped normally, it’s less likely to fertilize an egg. Some men develop a blockage that prevents sperm from travelling through the reproductive system. If this is the case, doctors can often treat it with minor procedures or, in rarer cases, surgery.
One of the less well-known causes of infertility is a condition called varicocele. You may have seen varicose veins on someone’s legs before – these are veins that have become swollen and distended, and can be quite painful. With varicocele, a vein in the scrotum becomes swollen similarly. This can cause pain and discomfort, and if left untreated, can lead to the testicles shrinking (atrophy). Surgery is usually the best way to correct the problem.
Recently, doctors have been having more trouble pinpointing the causes of infertility. In some cases, no matter how much testing is done, they can’t find a reason. However, this isn’t very common. Usually, the cause of infertility can be found and fixed.
The best way to help your doctor is to be open with them about your complete health background, your lifestyle, and your working environment. That way, you can work together to find a solution.
