Mr. and Mrs. Zhang have been married for three years. Though their marriage is harmonious and fulfilling, they've long struggled with infertility. Recently, accompanied by his wife, Mr. Zhang visited the urology department at a hospital. After thorough examination, it was discovered that Mr. Zhang's infertility stemmed from cryptorchidism (undescended testicle) in childhood that went untreated. If the testicle isn't removed now, there's a risk of cancerous transformation.
Many men never imagined that years of struggling to conceive could stem from a childhood condition. Beyond this factor, what other causes contribute to male infertility?
Male infertility is linked to five key factors:
1. Abnormal semen quality: Including oligospermia (low sperm count), azoospermia (no sperm), necrospermia (dead sperm), asthenospermia (poor motility), polyzoospermia (excessive sperm), hypospermia (low semen volume), and seminal fluid failure to liquefy.Oligospermia accounts for 15.4% of male infertility cases.
2. Sexual dysfunction: Including erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, nocturnal emissions, and anejaculation. Anejaculation accounts for 32.4% of male infertility causes.
3. Reproductive tract infections, congenital abnormalities, systemic diseases, and unexplained infertility.
4. Male infertility caused by varicocele accounts for 12%.
5. Immunological factors.
3. Reproductive tract infections, congenital abnormalities, systemic diseases, and unexplained infertility.
4. Varicocele-related male infertility accounts for 12%.
5. Immunological factors: Presence of anti-sperm antibodies in male serum or seminal plasma triggers autoimmunity against sperm, leading to immune-mediated infertility.
Daily Prevention of Male Infertility
Research indicates that over the past 30 years globally, male sperm counts have decreased by 30%-55%. This decline is directly linked to environmental pollution, including air, water, and food contamination. These pollutants affect the male urinary and reproductive systems, not only reducing sperm quantity but also compromising sperm quality.Individuals should enhance self-protection awareness, cultivate healthy habits, maintain regular sleep schedules, ensure adequate rest, modify unhealthy practices (like excessive alcohol, smoking, or strong tea), keep the scrotal area clean, avoid tight-fitting pants, manage personal stress, and achieve life balance.