The most frequent infertility disorders in men are problems with sperm count and quality, varicocele, hormonal imbalances, and obstructions. These conditions can make it harder for men to father children, but there are many treatments available. Diagnostic tests in couples with fertility issues should always start with the male partner.
Low sperm count
Having fewer sperm than normal reduces the chances of fertilising an egg. This can happen in males who overheat their testicles, for instance, sit for too long periods (for example sitting on the couch with a laptop in their lap) or who wear tight clothing. Sperm count can diminish also if you smoke, drink alcohol or use drugs. Luckily all of this can disappear after a lifestyle change. In some males, however, sperm counts can also be permanently low.
Poor sperm quality
These are sperm that are misshapen or not strong enough to swim to the egg. Sperm quality can be reduced for some time, for example, a bad flu with a high fever can cause a drop in sperm count which disappears a few weeks afterwards. Being obese or underweight, drinking alcohol, smoking or using drugs can also cause poor sperm quality. It is important to remember also that sperm quality can be permanently low.
Varicocele
Varicoceles are enlarged veins in the scrotum (the bag-like structure containing the testes) that can overheat testicles and damage sperm. Sometimes, these veins can be seen without additional tests. Other times, this condition can only be diagnosed by medical tests.
Hormonal imbalances
These are issues with hormones that regulate sperm production. The imbalance can be too high or too low testosterone level. The causes for that can sometimes remain unknown, but most abnormally high testosterone levels come from men who use anabolic steroids or testosterone to increase muscle mass. In many cases, the imbalances can be treated.
Obstructions
These mean blockages in the tubes that carry sperm, preventing them from being released.
Viral diseases
Some viral diseases such as mumps can destroy the parts of the testes that produce sperm and cause infertility. This is why it is important to get vaccinated against mumps.
It is important to remember that while we know a lot about our bodies and about infertility, sometimes, doctors cannot find the cause of infertility.