There has been a spike in male infertility cases, largely driven by increasing stress levels, obesity, poor lifestyle choices, and growing environmental pollution. These factors affect sperm quality, hormone balance, and overall reproductive health. This growing trend is a cause for concern, especially among couples aged 25-35 trying to conceive. Early diagnosis, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, reducing stress, and avoiding smoking and alcohol can significantly help manage and improve male fertility.
Every year, National Infertility Awareness Week is observed between April 20 and April 26. It is done to raise awareness about infertility and the need for more people to be educated about it. Infertility affects both men and women. Male infertility refers to problems in a man`s reproductive system that prevent him from successfully initiating a pregnancy with his partner.
Dr. Rita Modi, senior IVF consultant, Motherhood Fertility & IVF, Kharghar, explains, “Infertility is an increasing concern not just for women but also for men, with male infertility contributing to nearly half of all infertility cases. Male infertility does not just affect the male’s body, but also your mental well-being. This can further lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and a sense of failure in many men. These overwhelming emotions can make them stop from expressing what’s on their mind. We have observed an increasing incidence of male infertility. In two months, I have seen 17-18 men aged 27-35 with semen reports showing issues related to sperm number or quality.”
Shedding light on the issue, she further says, “Seeking medical help for fertility is necessary. The doctor may recommend a lot of interventions available, like hormone therapy, surgical procedures like sperm retrieval techniques, treatment of underlying medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or infections that may affect fertility or IVF and sperm freezing after assessing fertility health. Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes eating healthy food, staying active, reducing your stress levels, and avoiding smoking or drinking alcohol can help support your fertility. It is imperative to talk freely without feeling guilty and understand that seeking help will help to improve the outcomes.”
Dr Nisha Pansare, fertility specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Kharadi in Pune, adds “The higher rate of male infertility is linked to a combination of lifestyle, environmental, and health-related factors. Rising stress levels, along with unhealthy habits like smoking and alcohol use, have been shown to lower sperm count. Moreover, obesity and poor dietary choices, including frequent consumption of fast food are further contributing to declining male fertility. Environmental pollution and even exposure to harmful substances like pesticides and heavy metals compromise sperm quality. Certain medical conditions also contribute to male infertility, such as hormonal imbalances, diabetes, and infections. Age plays a role, too, as sperm quality tends to decline as one becomes older. So, timely diagnosis and management are key for men.”
Dr Nisha added, “In two months, 5-6 males aged 25-35 come with low sperm count, azoospermia, and are counselled for fertility treatment to be able to conceive. Diagnosing male infertility includes a detailed medical history, a physical exam, and a semen analysis to assess sperm count, movement, and shape. Symptoms may include low sex drive, testicular pain or swelling, and hormonal issues. In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is an effective treatment where eggs are fertilised with sperm in a lab for conception. Sperm freezing (cryopreservation) helps preserve fertility for men with low sperm counts or those undergoing other treatments. These advanced techniques offer the couple a chance to conceive and embrace parenthood. Addressing the stigma around male infertility is crucial. Experts stress the need for greater awareness through campaigns to break taboos and promote open conversations. Men should take charge of their reproductive health and seek timely treatment without any further delay.”
