New Delhi: Even though male infertility affects millions of men globally, there are still many myths and misconceptions about it. These misconceptions may result in avoidable health issues, delays in diagnosis, and stigma. Men can take proactive measures to improve their reproductive health by debunking these beliefs. These are some widespread misconceptions regarding male infertility, along with the facts that refute them.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr Rupali Tambe, Fertility Consultant at Nova IVF, Pune, spoke about common fertility myths.
Myth 1: Infertility is a “female problem”
The misunderstanding that infertility only affects women is among the most widespread misconceptions. In reality, males are just as likely as women to experience issues with infertility. Studies show that between 40 – 50 percent of cases of infertility are caused by male factors. Hormonal imbalances, sperm abnormalities, and lifestyle choices including smoking, excessive drinking, and poor diet are common reasons.
Myth 2: A man’s fertility lasts forever
Unlike women, who experience menopause, men do not experience a clear end to their fertility. However, male fertility is impacted by age. Age-related reductions in sperm quality, particularly beyond age 40, might impact fertility and raise the chance of genetic disorders. Although older men are capable of having children, fertility does decrease over time, and health risks can rise.
Myth 3: Male fertility is unaffected by lifestyle choices
The perception that lifestyle does not affect male fertility is false. Sperm quality can be harmed and fertility affected by factors including smoking, excessive drinking and drug usage, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise. The creation and quality of sperm can also be adversely affected by environmental exposures, such as extended exposure to heat and certain chemicals.
Myth 4: High sperm count equals high fertility
Sperm count is just one indicator of fertility, but it’s not the only one. For successful fertilization, additional factors including sperm motility (movement) and morphology (shape) are equally crucial. Conception might be difficult even with a high sperm count if there are motility or morphological problems.
Myth 5: Infertility is irreversible in men
Infertility doesn’t always mean a permanent inability to have children. Many fertility issues are curable, particularly those caused by hormone imbalances or lifestyle choices. Fertility results can be enhanced by treatments like as medication, lifestyle modifications, or procedures like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Myth 6: A healthy lifestyle guarantees fertility
Although leading a healthy lifestyle can increase fertility, it is not guaranteed. Even in healthy people, aging, medical issues, and genetic factors can affect fertility. Early fertility testing and routine checkups can aid in the early detection of such problems.
Addressing these myths is necessary for providing a supportive environment for men facing fertility issues. Increasing knowledge about male infertility can help couples on their path to parenthood by improving results, understanding, and support.
Infertility doesn’t always mean a permanent inability to have children. Many fertility issues are curable, particularly those caused by hormone imbalances or lifestyle choices. Fertility results can be enhanced by treatments like as medication, lifestyle modifications, or procedures like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
