What Can You Expect From A Male Fertility Tests

Although many people still think of fertility as a "woman's problem," up to half of all cases of infertility involve problems with the man. In fact, about 20 to 30 percent of the time, a man's low fertility is the main problem of conception. So it is vital that men get tested for fertility as well as women. Yes, it can be embarrassing, but discovering male fertility problems as early can mean earlier treatment and a successful pregnancy. Male infertility testing can also spare women unnecessary discomfort and expense. Urologists arbitrarily diagnose infertility when a couple has not conceived a child after 12 months of protected and frequent sex. Impaired fertility may be a better description; many couples who keep trying will get pregnant in the second year or later. A visit to a urologist should start the evaluation for male infertility. The urologist will likely begin with a basic interview and examination. In any evaluation for male infertility, the man will need to provide a sample of semen for analysis. The urologist will want the man to give the sample there, or at least someplace nearby, since it is important that the analysis take place quickly. Identifying the cause of a man's infertility is as much art as science. Male infertility specialists differ in their approach, but here are some of the tests a man can expect: * Sperm and Semen Analysis: A trained expert assesses the man's sperm count, their shape, movement, and other variables. Generally, a higher number of normal-shaped sperm means higher fertility, but exceptions are common. Many men with low sperm counts or abnormal semen are still fertile and about 15 percent of infertile men have normal semen and plenty of normal sperm. If the first semen analysis is normal, the doctor may order a second test to confirm the results. Two normal tests usually means that the man does not have any significant infertility problems. If something in the results look irregular, the doctor might order further tests to pinpoint the problem. Surprisingly, if no semen or sperm at all are present, this can be a good thing for it might suggest a blockage in the "plumbing" that can be corrected with surgery. * Physical Examination. A good physical exam can detect varicocoeles and give clues to hormone imbalances. Testicular size can be measured. The physical examination should ideally be performed by a urologist. * Hormone Evaluation. Testosterone, and multiple hormones made in the brain, control sperm production. However, hormones are not the main problem in 97 percent of infertile men. Experts disagree as to how big a search should be done for hormonal causes of infertility. * Genetic Testing. Genetic tests can identify specific obstacles to fertility, and problems with sperm. Experts differ as to when genetic tests should be done. * Anti-sperm Antibodies. Some men make abnormal antibodies against their own sperm. The antibodies attack the sperm on the way to the egg, preventing fertilization. Making sperm isn't the problem for other men, it is getting the sperm where they need to go. Men with these conditions have normal sperm in their testicles. Up to 25 percent of infertile men have abnormal or low sperm counts causing their infertility, for no identifiable reason. Through thorough testing of both the man and the woman, 85 percent of couples can discover the cause of their infertility. Many couples will become pregnant after the first year, with continued attempts and treatment.

Ways To Enhance Male Fertility Issue

Male fertility is an issue that many people are unaware of and need to contend with. It is said that nearly 30 to 50 percent of couples who have trouble making a baby are affected by the male fertility issue. The main reason for this problem is the inability to produce adequate quantities of healthy sperms. It could also be due to problems in getting the sperm into the woman due to impotency, premature, inhibited or retrograde ejaculation. Many couples who are keen on pregnancy planning feel frustrated when their repeated attempts seem to fail and consult their doctors who usually run fertility checks on both partners. Male fertility test is not conducted usually until the couples have been trying to make a baby for more than a period of a year. The causes of male fertility includes: * Varicoceles are dilated scrotal veins that impair proper sperm development by inhibiting proper drainage of blood, this is an easily correctable condition. * Sperm disorders due to problems in their production and development are common too. Low sperm count, abnormal shaped sperms, no sperm production at all are some of the defects that can cause infertility. * Retrograde ejaculation is when the semen drains into the bladder due to malfunctioning muscles and nerves of the bladder which do not close the bladder during orgasm, and can be caused due to diseases, operations, or as a result of medication. * Obstruction that may block the normal passage of sperm. * Low hormone levels. * Genetic abnormalities. * Side effects of certain medication such as anabolic steroids. * Illnesses such as mumps orchitis and epididymitis. * Diseases such as cancer of the pituitary. * Exposure to excessive heat through hot tubs, saunas etc. radiation, toxins, heavy metals or chemotherapy. * Drug, alcohol or substance abuse * Excessive smoking. Smoking that lead to inability to sleep or insomnia. * Psychological and physiological impotency. The good news is that almost half the cases of male fertility are curable by a simple surgical procedure or with medication. There are methods such as in vitro fertilization or Intracytoplasmic sperm injection to help couples. And some tips to help prevent male infertility such as: regular exercise, practicing relaxation techniques, staying fit - not obese nor underweight, and eating a well balanced diet rich in antioxidants and vitamins. There are many ways in which one can increase sperm count. Increasing dietary antioxidant intake by increasing consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables has been recommended. Regular helpings of apples, green leafy vegetables, peppers, oranges is recommended as these are said to be foods that increase sperm count. Diet plays an important role in influencing male fertility issues. Vitamins to increase sperm count such as vitamin C, E, multi-vitamin tablets and nutrients like zinc, folate and selenium are to be included in the diet. There are several sperm count enhancers available such as herbs, massage oils. Herbs such as Maca, ginseng, aspharagus, saw palmetto, Flax seed oil, sun flower and pumpkin seeds, fish oils are said to aid in raising sperm count. There are many over-the-counter products claiming to help in increasing male fertility. Consult your physician before you try them. The pre-pregnancy stage can be utilized to get you ready physically and mentally for childbirth. Try to lead a lifestyle that will help increase your chances such as abstaining from smoking, drinking, drugs. Regular exercise and drinking plenty of fluids is also recommended. Avoid wearing tight fitting cloths, carrying cell phones and laptops. Remember there are other options available and try not to get too tense while trying to make your partner pregnant. Stress has a negative influence and can delay conception. Reading books and magazines to learn as much as you can and above all have a positive attitude is a good idea as well.

Male Fertility And Age – Does It Matter How Old A Man Is?

Male fertility and age - does it matter how old a man is? With all the media attention on a woman's age and fertility, one may wonder if men are forever fertile. Turns out that age also has an effect on fertility in men. Despite not hearing much in the news on male fertility and age, there are quite a few studies on the subject. One research study, looked at semen quality in normal males and compared the quantity and quality of the sperm and semen to the men's ages. The study look at everything a semen analysis would include as well as how often they had sex since sexual abstinence also has an effect on semen quality. In the study, they found that, overall, semen quality peaked between the ages of 30 and 35, while overall semen quantity was found to be lowest after age 55. They also found that sperm motility, in other words, how well the sperm swim - was best before age 25 and lowest after age 35. In fact, when comparing the number of "good swimming" sperm in men between the ages 30 to 35 with men over age 55, sperm motility decreased by 54 percent. The strong variations could bot be blamed on sexual abstinence, which was tracked in the study - in other words, the lower quality semen in the older men could not be blamed on infrequent sex, which can also lead to low-quality sperm. Besides low-quality semen, age also affects the genetic quality of male sperm. In a study, researches discovered that genetic defects in the sperm increase with age in men, possibly leading to decreased fertility, increased chance of miscarriage and increased risk of some birth defects. The scientists reported that older men are not only at risk for infertility, but they are also more likely to pass on genetic problems to their children. In yet another study, researches found a link between male age and in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates, even when donor eggs were being used. For women over age 40 or women with low-ovarian egg reserves, donor eggs often offer the best chance for IVF success. What if the man is also older, though? Does age make a difference? Compared to constipation problem, age does not matter. But according to this research study, age did have an effect on the outcome. The study compared the sperm and embryos of couples whose in vitro fertilization ed treatment led to pregnancy with couples for whom IVF treatment failed. All the couples in this study were using egg donors, so the age of the mother was not an issue. They found that until age 40, the man's age did not seem to have a significant effect. After age 40, though, the quality of the semen diminished, possibly leading to IVF treatment failure. They also found that embryos in the nonpregnant group were of lower quality than the pregnant group, perhaps related to poorer quality sperm. Therefore, you already know that as woman ages, her fertility decreases, but as these studies show, age also has an effect on male fertility. Both men and women must contend with their biological clocks.

The Role Of Health And Lifestyle History In Male Fertility Issues

Unluckily, stigmas still exist around male fertility issues - primarily that there aren't any. For whatever reason, over the years it is women who have been the focus of debates around infertility. Yet, this lack of discussion has caused a lot of confusion as to what kind of factors influence a man's fertility. Not surprisingly both female and male infertility can be brought on by any number of factors. From lifestyle to family history, many things are at play when considering why a man may be experiencing fertility problems. That is why experts suggest to learn more about male fertility and male infertility problems. If there have been other men in your family who have experienced fertility problems, then it is not necessarily unusual for you to also be having troubles. If, however, you have fathered a child before, you may be experiencing secondary infertility. Another relevant moment in a man's past is whether or not he has had surgery on his groin or in the groin area or on his abdomen. Surgery can produce scar tissue or even possibly damage parts of male reproductive organs. In addition to genetics, a man's overall health and lifestyle are the greatest determinants of his fertility. If you or your partner are experiencing problems conceiving, consider the following factors that can affect male infertility: * Overall Health. Health issues can affect sperm production. For instance, an ulcer or high blood pressure medication can hinder the production of sperm or the sperm's ability to fertilize an egg. In addition, previous illnesses, like the mumps, can actually shrink your partner's testicles and slow down sperm production. Even prolonged exposure to heat (for example, from a sauna) can interfere with your partner's ability to produce sperm. * Exposure To Toxins. Toxins that may kill sperm are obviously an important factor to consider. More specifically, these toxins are called gonadotoxins and can be found in pesticides,chemotherapy, drugs, alcohol and marijuana. * Lifestyle. As if lung cancer wasn't enough of an incentive to quit smoking, male smokers should also know the chemicals found in cigarettes may also affect their fertility. Cigarettes may lead to lower sperm count and a greater number of abnormal sperm compared to that found in a non-smoker. Alcohol can also cause problems with a man's ability to produce sperm. * Medications. Another no-no for men trying to conceive with their partner is the use of steroids, as these drugs can interfere with sperm quality and can cause impotence over time. If your partner's using products like anti aging skin care or Rogain to help his thinning hair, tell him to stop using the product for a few months. For men experiencing fertility issues, it will be a comfort to know there are many therapies available, in the form of both self-care and medical treatment. For beginners, it is a good idea for both individuals in the relationship to make an effort to improve their diet and exercise regularly. In addition, some may choose to try fertility drugs or other surgical or medically supervised treatments. In order to find out what type of treatment is right for you, it is best to talk with your doctor.

Male Fertility Caution: Hazardous To Sperm

Even under the best website design Lexington circumstances, only 50 to 70 percent of a man's sperm are healthy enough to fertilize an egg. Sperm can be especially vulnerable to environmental factors, such as exposure to excessive heat or toxic chemicals. To protect your fertility: * Watch Out For Toxins. Experts think certain workplace and household substances might have an effect on sperm quantity and quality. These include heavy metals used in industrial workplaces, pesticides and chemicals in solvents. Use protective clothing, proper ventilation and face masks to reduce the risk of absorbing such toxins. * Quit Using Tobacco. The sperm of men who smoke may be misshapen and may move more slowly than those of nonsmokers. Smoking can also damage your sperm's DNA. Experts suspect such damage could even affect a baby's growth and development and increase a child's chance of having certain health problems, including cancer. And chewing tobacco is not safe either - it also may cause low sperm counts and damage. As if that weren't enough, tobacco use can increase erectile dysfunction. Research shows men who both smoke and drink alcohol have lower sperm counts and motility than do men with either habit alone. * Limit Alcohol Intake. Heavy drinking may reduce the quality and quantity of sperm. Limit alcohol to no more than 1 or 2 drinks a day. The combination of tobacco and alcohol is particularly harmful. * Steer Clear Of Illicit Drugs. Marijuana can decrease sperm density and motility and increase the number of abnormal sperm. Cocaine and opiates can contribute to erectile dysfunction, and amphetamines can decrease sex drive. * Skip The Tub. To maximize the quality and quantity of your sperm, avoid hot tubs and baths. Spending more than thirty minutes in water 102 F (40 degree Celsius) or above may lower your sperm count. Saunas and steam rooms may have a similar effect. * Avoid Hormone Havoc. Anabolic steroids, usually taken illegally, can shrink the testicles and drastically reduce fertility. Anti-androgens used to treat prostate enlargement and cancer interfere with sperm production. Testosterone supplements also decrease fertility. * Stay Cool. Increased scrotal temperature can hurt sperm production. Experts know that hot work environments, tight underpants, prolonged sitting and use of laptop computers can all increase scrotal temperature. They are still studying how these activities affect fertility. * Avoid Lubricants During Sex. Personal lubricants, lotions and even saliva can interfere with sperm motility. However, vegetable-oil-based lubricants are okay.

Male Fertility: Separating Fact From Fiction

A number of myths and SEO marketing campaign have made the rounds in recent years, including groundless rumors that menthol cigarettes and certain soft drinks can make men sterile. Here are some that turn out to be true: * Fact: Bicycling Can Sabotage The System. Sitting on a bicycle saddle for more than 30 minutes at a time - especially if you also wear tight bicycle shorts - may raise your scrotal temperature and affect sperm production. In addition, prolonged cycling can cause genital numbness (a sign of damage to delicate nerves and arteries.) Choose a seat that is not too hard or narrow, and make sure it is adjusted to keep weight on your "sit bones." Take frequent rests while biking. * Fact: Pollution Affects Sperm. Experts think environmental toxins may have something to do with falling sperm counts. One culprit may be estrogen -like chemicals widely used in agriculture and industry. These substances are found in places ranging from drinking water to household products. Other environmental toxins that might affect male fertility are growth hormones present in meat. * Fact: The flu slows sperm production. An illness that causes a fever can affect sperm production and sperm quality. But it will not affect fertility for two to three months, since it takes sperm 75 days to mature. * Fact: The Calendar Also Matters To Men. Sperm counts are higher in the winter and lower in the summer. This may be because cooler temperatures are associated with increased sperm production. Sperm counts are also higher in the morning than at other times of day. However, experts are not sure that time of day or time of year makes a notable difference in fertility. Adopting healthy lifestyle practices to preserve male fertility - and avoiding things that can damage it - may improve your and your partner's chances of conceiving a child. But you still may not become a father on your first - or even 51st - try. If you and your partner have not achieved a pregnancy after a year of unprotected intercourse, see your doctor and get a semen analysis. About 25 percent of couples have trouble conceiving at some point, and this number increases with age. Forty percent of infertility can be traced to the man alone, but often it is a combination of both the man and woman. A fertility specialist can identify the cause of the problem and provide treatments that may help place you and your partner on the road to parenthood.

Male Fertility: What Can You Do To Produce High-Quality Sperm?

Do your sperm pass muster? Despite several months of effort, you and your partner haven't yet conceived. You are not ready to seek a fertility evaluation, but you might be wondering whether you are doing all you can to make sure you have healthy sperm. Male fertility depends on sperm quality and quantity, which can be affected by a variety of things. While you may not be able to control all the factors that could improve your fertility, there are steps you can take to maximize your fertility and make sure your sperm are top performers. It takes only one sperm cell to fertilize an egg. With millions of sperm vying for the chance, you would think each act of intercourse between you and your partner would have excellent odds of resulting in pregnancy. In fact, it may take many attempts before you succeed, even if you are both healthy and your timing is right - that is, you have sex in the days leading up to ovulation when the egg is released from the ovary. Here is what you can do to increase your chance of contributing enough hardy, energetic sperm to get the best gift ideas and job done. * Take A Multivitamin. A daily multivitamin can help provide selenium, zinc and folic acid - trace nutrients that are important for optimal sperm production and function. * Eat Plenty Of Fruits And Vegetables. These foods are rich in antioxidants, which may help improve sperm health. * Reduce Stress. Stress might interfere with certain hormones needed to produce sperm. Stress can also decrease sexual function. * Get Regular Exercise. Physical activity is good for reproductive health as well as your overall health. But don't overdo it. Men who exercise to exhaustion show a temporary change in hormone levels and a drop in sperm quality. * Watch Your Weight. Too much or too little body fat may disrupt production of reproductive hormones, which can reduce your sperm count and increase your percentage of abnormal sperm. You are most likely to produce lots of high-quality sperm if you maintain a healthy weight.

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