Conditions Affecting Fertility
Male infertility can affect up to 50% of all couples seeking fertility treatment. The most common causes include:
- Genetic problems
- Hormonal problems
- Difficulties with erections or ejaculation
- Lifestyle issues such as excess weight
- Smoking (including cannabis)
- Sperm antibodies
- Blockages including previous vasectomy
- Previous cancer therapy or radiation
- Previous testicular surgery or surgery as a child to correct an undescended testes.
In many cases no known underlying cause is identified.
The best way to assess male fertility is through a semen analysis. This should be performed in an accredited laboratory. If there are abnormalities it is common to repeat the test.
