Infertility affects approximately 186 million people worldwide, often framed primarily as a women's issue. However, it is important to recognise that male partners are implicated in nearly half of infertility cases, revealing a critical aspect of reproductive health that warrants greater attention and understanding. According to expert Dr Sheetal Jindal, Senior Consultant and IVF-PGT Expert at Jindal IVF, over 12 to 18 million couples in India are diagnosed with infertility each year.

Despite the significant presence of male factor infertility, many men remain hesitant to seek assistance. Dr Jindal points out that societal stigma surrounding reproductive health not only perpetuates silence but also obscures the true scope of male infertility. As a result, the actual number of men facing these challenges is likely much higher than reported figures suggest. This silence can prevent men from accessing the support and treatment they need, exacerbating the emotional and psychological toll of infertility.

Dr Jindal says that sperm quality is a pivotal factor influencing the success of In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF). Abnormal sperm characteristics—such as low concentration, reduced motility, and irregular morphology—can considerably hinder the chances of successful conception. Elevated levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in sperm lead to decreased sperm quality, with research showing that 40% to 88% of sperm from men with infertility exhibit higher levels of ROS. This oxidative stress inflicts cellular damage, impairing crucial sperm functions, including maturation and the acrosome reaction, both essential for effective fertilisation.

Dr Jindal says that decreased sperm count, motility, or abnormal morphology can often be addressed through medical or surgical interventions, successfully treating approximately 50% of affected men.

Male infertility is a multifaceted issue influenced by various factors. Hormonal imbalances, particularly low testosterone levels, can severely impact sperm production and overall fertility. Conditions such as varicocele—the enlargement of veins within the scrotum—can disrupt blood flow and affect testicular function, further diminishing sperm output. Additionally, medical conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and certain infections contribute to hormonal dysregulation and subsequent fertility challenges.

Lifestyle choices also have a considerable impact on reproductive health. Dr Jindal stresses that factors such as obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and illicit drug use can disrupt hormone levels and impair sperm quality. Environmental influences, including exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and heavy metals, further contribute to male infertility by disrupting hormone signalling and normal sperm development.

The rising prevalence of male infertility, which has surged by 76.9% since 1990, reinforces the urgent need to confront this health challenge. Dr Jindal asserts that tackling male infertility requires a united effort to dismantle the associated stigma. Education and awareness campaigns are vital for encouraging men to seek assistance and engage in open discussions about their reproductive health.

Fostering supportive environments that promote dialogue around male fertility challenges is essential for enhancing understanding and empathy. Healthcare providers can proactively incorporate conversations about male fertility into routine health assessments and offer screenings for men facing infertility issues. Research initiatives exploring the diverse causes of male infertility—encompassing genetic factors, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions—play a crucial role in developing effective treatment protocols.

Prioritising male fertility within the broader conversation about reproductive health creates a more inclusive narrative, empowering all individuals to take proactive steps in their reproductive journeys. By shedding light on these critical issues, we can encourage men to seek the help they need, ultimately fostering healthier families and communities.

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