Subfertility
- Symptoms
There are multiple potential causes for infertility, which can include:
Abnormalities in sperm production/function: This can be due to:
- Genetic defects
- Scrotal/testicular conditions: Varicocele (engorged veins within the scrotum affecting quality of sperm), previous undescended testis or testicular torsion (twisting of the testis, which affects blood flow and causing damage)
- Hormonal imbalances such as low testosterone levels, which can contribute to impairments in sperm production
- Drugs like anabolic steroids, certain antibiotics, or marijuana, as well as some medical treatments for cancer, like radiotherapy or chemotherapy can also affect sperm production
Obstruction in the delivery of sperm: This is due to an obstruction within the sperm ducts, limiting delivery of sperms from the testes into the semen. This could be due to genetic diseases like cystic fibrosis, or previous infections or injury.
Environmental exposures: A less common cause for infertility, but can include cigarette smoking, significant alcohol intake, malnutrition, or obesity.
Idiopathic: Up to 40% of men with infertility might have abnormal sperms, but without an obvious cause.
