Infertility in men is a topic often shrouded in taboo and secrecy amongst most Indian couples. Most of the time, fertility is directly associated with females, but with the growing Indian economic and social landscape, it’s time we shed light on male infertility as well. For centuries, societal pressures and cultural norms have played a significant role in family planning decisions. We at ZIVA Fertility Clinics have decades of experience in helping infertile couples realise their dream of having a baby. So, we understand that male infertility is not as rare as it is thought. There are many aspects of male infertility and many treatment options, too. However, knowing about this is crucial to taking the first step.
What is the Male Infertility landscape among Indian couples?
Among a total of 15-20% of infertile couples in India, male infertility contributes to 40-50% of all cases. The high percentage could be attributed to factors like:
- The country’s large population
- Poor awareness about male fertility and male reproductive health
- Limited access to quality healthcare.
- A growing number of men are starting families at an older age when their sperm quality may have already begun to decline.
One of the main reasons for the lack of awareness attached while talking about male infertility is shame and fear of judgement from society. In rural areas, there is a lack of access to quality healthcare, which makes it difficult for couples struggling with infertility to get the help they need.
Causes of Male Infertility which Indian couples should be aware of
While we have seen some highlights above, let us understand them in detail:
Malnutrition diet: A well-balanced daily meal is necessary for the male reproductive system as well. It helps in healthy sperm production. However, due to a lack of access to such resources, mainly due to the economic conditions, sperm production and quality suffer.
Lifestyle-related factors:
- Working in an environment with toxins such as lead and mercury can decline sperm quality.
- Men are starting to smoke and take up alcohol at a much younger age as a way of stress relief.
- Due to increased consumption of junk food, obesity is on the rise even in the most fertile age.
Increased Stress: Couples nowadays have high goals, and to achieve them, men work very hard, which affects their stress levels. Lack of proper work-life balance is detrimental to fertility, too, since stress can impact hormone levels and interfere with sperm production.
Male Infertility in India – Diagnosis
The first and foremost way is that the fertility specialist will order a semen analysis. Semen analysis reveals the quantity and quality of sperm in a man’s ejaculate. The outcome of these tests can help doctors determine the cause of the infertility and recommend treatment options. If semen analysis results do not reveal anything, they might order blood tests to evaluate the hormonal levels. A physical examination is also conducted to rule out any structural abnormalities.
Infertility in men: A hidden truth in Indian couples – Treatment Options Available
The good news is that even if men are diagnosed with infertility, they don’t have to lose hope. There are many surgical and nonsurgical options available.
Most treatment options require multiple rounds before success is achieved. Indian couples have to be prepared physically, mentally, emotionally and financially before starting any fertility treatment. Please remember that many couples have overcome infertility and gone on to have healthy children. If you or someone you know is struggling with fertility issues, the help of ZIVA Fertility clinics is always available. It would be a good idea to find couples having similar problems or who underwent a similar experience. Have patience, and you can increase your chances of success in conceiving a child.
The word of caution is that any of these treatments will work only if men alter their lifestyles.
- Men should give up smoking and curtail alcohol intake.
- The weight must be within the normal BMI range.
- Start eating a balanced diet.
- If you are having any difficulties managing this lifestyle, seek help from professionals.
Treatment options are available for male infertility in India. These include:
Surgery: Surgery is an option in men having issues with the reproductive system, such as blockages in the reproductive tract or varicoceles (enlarged veins in the testicles).
Hormonal therapy: Some men have low levels of testosterone. Testosterone is the primary hormone needed for fertility.
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART): ART is an umbrella term used for a group of fertility treatments that involve achieving fertilisation via a combination of artificial and natural means. The most widely used are in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI). In cases of male infertility, IVF in combination with ICSI works best.
The success rate of treatment for male infertility is evaluated on a case-by-case basis. But there are higher chances of achieving a pregnancy with treatment.
Male infertility is a real problem in India, affecting thousands of people every year. We at ZIVA Fertility clinics say that lifestyle factors such as smoking and diet play an important role in determining fertility levels; thus, educating individuals on the importance of healthy habits will be vital to reduce male infertility rates in India.
Just as men go to medical professionals, similarly, if you suspect something is not working right, please schedule an initial consultation. Indian couples should know that this is no longer a taboo. You are given privacy to discuss these issues with a fertility specialist. If you keep your doubts to yourself, it will add more stress. Getting a thorough checkup and tests will clearly let you know if there is any issue really. For more information, please visit our website https://zivafertility.com/ or contact us at +91-9100002737 or + 91-9347406900
