Male Infertility
According to the World Health Organization, between 48 million couples and 186 million individuals live with infertility globally. Men are found to be the only cause or a contributing cause of infertility problems in couples in about 40% of cases.
Male infertility is most commonly caused by:
- absence or low levels of sperm
- abnormally shaped sperm
- sperm moving in abnormal direction
- problems with ejection of semen
Factors Affecting Infertility
Damage to the reproductive system can cause low or no sperm. About 4 out of every 10 men can have azoospermia. This is a complete absence of sperm in semen. Azoospermia is due to a blockage within the tubes the sperm travel through that can be caused by a birth defect or a hormonal imbalance.
Abnormal sperm production or function may be due to
- undescended testicles
- genetic defects
- health problems such as diabetes
- infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, mumps or HIV
Enlarged veins in the testes, or varicoceles, also can affect the quality of sperm, and are found in 40% of men with fertility problems. They harm sperm growth by blocking proper blood drainage, causing blood to flow back into the scrotum. The testicles are then too warm for making sperm. As a result, less sperm will be produced which is termed oligospermia.
Sperm production can also be affected by:
- overexposure to certain environmental factors
- harmful chemicals
- radiation
- certain medications to treat infections
- high blood pressure
- depression
- cigarette smoking
- alcohol
- marijuana
- anabolic steroids
- frequent exposure to heat, such as in saunas or hot tubs
Problems in the ejection of semen accounts for about 10-20% of cases with male infertility. Some causes can include:
- Vasectomy – the ends of the tubes are cut and sealed
- Cystic fibrosis – tubes that carry the sperm out of the testicles are absent
- Sexual dysfunction – such as premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction
- Retrograde ejaculation
How Can PT Help?
A pelvic physical therapist can utilize various manual techniques, such as visceral mobilization to help the reproductive organs move freely, in order for them to function more effectively. The pelvic floor muscles may also be assessed and treated internally to improve strength and tone and increase circulation into the penis.
