In our society, the burden of infertility is often placed solely on the woman. Medically, this is incorrect. The chance of male factors causing infertility is equal to that of female factors. The good news is that male testing is the easiest and most affordable, and if done early, it saves time for the entire couple.
What are the Main Causes of Male Infertility?
- Low sperm count or poor motility: The most common cause.
- Varicocele: Swelling of veins around the testicles, which can be treated with surgery.
- Hormonal imbalance: Problems with testosterone or other hormones.
- Infections or previous surgery/injury.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol, obesity, heat exposure, and stress.
What is Considered "Normal" in Semen Analysis?
Semen analysis is the foundation of male evaluation. Below are the normal lower reference limits according to WHO (2021, 6th edition). Remember that one low result doesn't mean you should panic — sperm parameters change over time, so a second test is often recommended.
| Parameter | Normal Lower Limit (WHO 2021) |
|---|---|
| Semen Volume | 1.4 ml or more |
| Sperm Concentration | 16 million/ml or more |
| Total Sperm Number | 39 million or more |
| Total Motility | 42% or more |
| Progressive Motility | 30% or more |
| Normal Morphology | 4% or more |
What Other Tests Can Be Done?
If the semen report is abnormal, further tests are recommended to find the underlying cause:
- Hormone blood tests (FSH, LH, testosterone)
- Testicular ultrasound (to check for varicocele)
- Genetic testing when necessary
- DNA fragmentation test — in selected cases
What are the Treatment Options for Male Infertility?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and in many cases, outcomes are good:
Lifestyle Modifications
Quitting smoking and alcohol, weight loss, balanced diet, and adequate sleep can improve sperm parameters in many cases, though it may take 2-3 months to see results.
Medication or Surgery
Medications can address hormonal imbalances, and minor surgery can help with varicocele.
IVF with ICSI
When sperm count is very low, a single healthy sperm can be injected directly into the egg (ICSI) to create an embryo. For cases where no sperm is found, sperm can be extracted directly from the testicle using procedures like TESA or TESE.
A Simple Test Can Provide Many Answers
Male testing is straightforward and should be done early. Book a consultation with Dr. Dipesh Sorathiya at Khushhi IVF in Thaltej for both husband and wife.
Book an Appointment Learn About the ClinicFrequently Asked Questions
Can a man with low sperm count have children?
Yes, many men with low sperm counts father children naturally, and if needed, techniques like ICSI can help.
What preparation is needed for a semen test?
Generally, abstinence of 2 to 5 days before collection is recommended. The clinic will provide specific instructions.
Does age affect male fertility?
Yes, though more slowly than in women. As age increases, sperm quality can decline.
Do hot water or laptops make a difference?
Excessive heat is not good for sperm. However, this alone is rarely the main cause — proper testing will reveal the real issue.
