Are you concerned a male fertility problem could be the reason you’re not able to conceive? Male fertility challenges are more common than most people realize. According to RESOLVE (National Infertility Association), approximately one-third of infertility cases are attributed to the male partner. Other research shows this number may be even higher, with male-factor infertility accounting for 40-60% of all fertility problems.
We know it can be hard for some men to actively seek fertility testing or treatment. Men need support just as women do on their fertility journey. This article highlights top fertility concerns men face and offers natural options to address them. Getting support for a male fertility issue could solve your conception problems for good.
Top 5 Fertility Health Concerns for Men
1. Low Sperm Count (oligospermia): Low sperm count is a major fertility blocker for men. Sperm count is considered low if you have less than 20 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Low sperm count is often related to varicocele (more on this below), lifestyle or environmental factors. There is good news if you have low sperm count! Research shows that as long as you’re producing some sperm, your chances of fathering a child are still good.
To boost sperm count naturally, we suggest:
- following a nutrient dense Male Fertility Diet
- making sure the testicles are kept cool (heat damages sperm)
- exploring supplements like zinc and vitamin C, as well as herbs
- learning more about the Male Factor Formula Kit
2. Abnormal Sperm Morphology: Many men we work with share that tests show their sperm count is normal, but their morphology is poor. A morphology problem refers to abnormalities in the size and shape of sperm. This can be related to poor diet or lifestyle habits, exposure to toxins, fertility-damaging drugs or genetic traits. Avoiding toxins and damaging habits like smoking, drug or alcohol overuse are your first steps in addressing a morphology problem naturally. Making sure your diet is high in antioxidant-rich, fresh fruits and vegetables is the next most important step. Learn more: Male Fertility: Encouraging Healthy Sperm Morphology.
3. Immune Fertility Problems: As with women, the immune system can become imbalanced in men and affect reproductive function. Both men and women can develop antisperm antibodies, which identify otherwise healthy sperm as harmful pathogens. In these situations, the immune system launches an attack, which damages sperm. For antisperm antibodies, improving digestive health can be critical to recovery (much of immune response is based in the gut). A special immune balancing diet is often the best choice.
4. Varicocele: Varocicele, an enlargement of a vein or veins in the scrotum, causes up to 40% of all male infertility cases. Varicocele can affect sperm production and may develop as early as in puberty. For longstanding varicocele, a surgical correction could be the best approach, but even in these cases, natural therapies can encourage a fast, healthy recovery. Natural options to explore while searching for the best course of action include: avoiding environmental toxins, which further decrease sperm health, and the amino acid l-carnitine.
5. Drug Related Fertility Problems: Some medications affect sperm count and male fertility. Common offenders include:
- chemotherapy drugs (and radiation treatments)
- anabolic steroids
- certain antifungals or antibiotics
- acid blockers
- pain medications
- antidepressants
- blood pressure drugs
- recreational drugs including nicotine and marijuana
Review all of your medicines and all you are taking to make sure the cause of a fertility problem isn’t something you’re taking for pleasure or for your health. Learn more: Male Fertility Health: Are Your Prescriptions Affecting Your Fertility?
There is natural support!
Supporting each partner is important when you’re addressing a fertility challenge. Both men and women benefit from natural fertility therapies. If you’re facing a male fertility problem, take time to learn about herbs and supplements for male fertility health and seek help if you’re unsure where to start. A Fertility Consultation may be the best choice if you’ve struggled to conceive for a long time and want one-on-one guidance.
- Low Sperm Count. (2018). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-sperm-count/symptoms-causes/syc-20374585
- How Common is Male Infertility, and What Are its Causes. (2018). National Institutes of Health. Retrieved from: https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/menshealth/conditioninfo/Pages/infertility.aspx
- Fast Facts. (2018). Resolve. Retrieved from: http://resolve.org/infertility-101/what-is-infertility/fast-facts/
- Male Autoimmune Response To Sperm. (2018). Conception Advice. Retrieved from: http://www.conceptionadvice.com/common-causes-of-infertility-problems-in-men/male-autoimmune-response-to-sperm/
- Gurevich, R. (2017, Oct.). What Impact Does Male Smoking Have on Sperm and Fertility? Very Well. Retrieved from: https://www.verywell.com/male-fertility-and-smoking-1960256
Sarah has worked in the field of natural foods and herbalism for over 20 years. She’s a published author, Certified Herbalist, and health and wellness consultant. Sarah Graduated from the Professional Herbal Studies from the East West School of Herbology, and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English. Working with women on their journey to wellness is her passion and she loves to share what she has been blessed to learn from naturopaths and other herbalists over the years.
