Mieshedelmättömyyden

Mieshedelmättömyys, known in English as male infertility, refers to the inability of a man to cause a pregnancy in a fertile woman. This condition is a significant factor in couples experiencing difficulties conceiving, contributing to approximately 40-50% of all infertility cases. The causes of male infertility are diverse and can range from genetic factors to environmental influences and lifestyle choices.

Common biological causes include problems with sperm production, such as a low sperm count (oligospermia), poor sperm motility (asthenospermia), or abnormal sperm morphology (teratospermia). These issues can arise from hormonal imbalances, infections, undescended testicles, varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum), or genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome. Blockages in the reproductive tract can also prevent sperm from being ejaculated.

Environmental factors and lifestyle choices play a crucial role as well. Exposure to toxins, pesticides, and heavy metals can negatively impact sperm quality. Excessive heat exposure to the testicles, such as from prolonged hot tub use or tight clothing, is also detrimental. Lifestyle factors like smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, drug use, obesity, and chronic stress have been linked to reduced fertility in men. Certain medications, including some used to treat cancer or high blood pressure, can also affect sperm production.

Diagnosing male infertility typically involves a physical examination, a review of medical history, and semen analysis to assess sperm count, motility, and morphology. Further tests may be conducted to investigate hormonal levels or genetic abnormalities. Treatment options vary depending on the underlying cause and can include lifestyle modifications, hormonal therapy, surgical correction of blockages or varicoceles, or assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF).