Male Infertility Is on the Rise — Our Experts Explain Why
Jan 17, 2025
Many people believe infertility is usually a women’s health issue. The truth, however, is that it’s related to female infertility about 33% of the time and to male infertility about 33% of the time. The remaining cases are linked to male and female factors or simply unexplained.
Unfortunately, depending on the study, research has shown a noticeable decline in sperm quantity and quality over the last 20-40 years, perhaps by as much as 50%. Researchers are seeking answers to solve the mystery behind this trend.
Our mission at Gago Center for Fertility, with three Michigan locations, is to provide personalized, compassionate care to couples seeking fertility services. We offer comprehensive evaluations to determine which infertility treatments best meet your needs.
Read what our team says about declining sperm quantity and quality and how it relates to fertility.
Sperm quantity refers to how many sperm are present in a single ejaculation. Most experts agree that a sperm count of 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen (ejaculate) offers the best chance of fertility, provided other issues aren’t contributing (i.e., female infertility).
Sperm quality refers to sperm structure (morphology) and motility. In this case, motility is the most critical factor since sperm must move quickly and well to complete the journey to fertilize an egg.
A comprehensive semen analysis at Gago Center for Fertility measures factors that can interfere with fertility, including sperm quantity, morphology, and semen pH.
These results offer a baseline for designing fertility treatments tailored to your needs, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Several factors may play a role in rising rates of male infertility, including:
Chemicals in personal care products, pesticides, and plastics can affect sperm health. For instance, phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA) found in plastics are known endocrine disruptors that can negatively affect sperm production and quality.
Obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and recreational drug use have been linked to reduced sperm count and motility. Increased stress and poor sleep habits can exacerbate these issues.
Frequent use of hot tubs and tight clothing can increase scrotal temperature, which is detrimental to sperm production. The testicles need to maintain a temperature slightly lower than the body’s core temperature for optimal sperm production.
Diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic ailments are increasingly common in younger men and can contribute to hormonal imbalances and reduced fertility.
Additionally, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to scarring and blockages in the reproductive tract.
Testosterone levels in men have steadily declined over several decades. Testosterone is critical for sperm production, and its decline is linked to lifestyle and environmental factors.
While the statistics may seem alarming, men can take steps to help improve their fertility:
Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, and a healthy weight can significantly improve sperm health. Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol, and drug use is equally important.
These healthy habits can also decrease your risk of diabetes, hypertension, and other chronic diseases that impact fertility.
Limit your exposure to toxins by using glass or stainless steel containers rather than plastic, choosing organic produce when possible, and selecting personal care products free of potentially harmful chemicals like phthalates and parabens.
Chronic stress can negatively impact hormonal balance and sperm production. Meditation, regular exercise, and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress.
If you’re concerned about fertility, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Our fertility specialists can conduct tests to identify underlying issues and recommend appropriate treatments or specialty care.
For men facing severe infertility, medical advancements like intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) offer hope. These techniques have revolutionized male infertility treatment, making parenthood possible for many couples.
Infertility isn’t just a women’s issue; it’s a shared challenge that requires a holistic approach. To get started, schedule a visit at Gago Center for Fertility today. Call the office in Brighton, Lansing, or Ann Arbor, Michigan, or request an appointment online.