Causes of Male Infertility

Sperm disorders

  • Problems with making healthy sperm are the most common causes of male infertility.
  • Sperm may be immature, abnormally shaped, unable to swim, may not be enough quantity or not making any sperm.
  • This may be caused by many different conditions, including:
  • Infections or inflammatory conditions eg infection with the mumps virus after puberty.
  • Genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis or hemochromatosis
  • Hormone or pituitary gland problems
  • Immune problems
  • Environmental and lifestyle factors. These include tobacco use, heavy alcohol use, use of marijuana or steroids, or exposure to toxins.
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Structural problems

  • Anything that blocks the genital tract can stop the flow of semen. This could be a genetic or birth defect.
  • Infection or inflammation from a sexually transmitted disease can also block semen.
  • Other causes include scar tissue from surgery or twisted, swollen veins in the scrotum.
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Other factors

  • Other factors may include erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.
  • Liver or kidney disease, or treatment for seizure disorders are examples of problems that can cause infertility.
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Who is at risk for male infertility?

You may be more likely to have male infertility if you have had:

  • Past inflammation of the prostate or past genital infections
  • Injury or twisting(torsion) of testicles
  • Early or late puberty
  • Exposure of the genitals to high temperatures
  • Hernia repair
  • Underscored testicles
  • Certain medication