In this article:
Myth 1: Infertility is always the woman’s problem
Fact: Male factors cause or contribute to infertility in up to 50 per cent of cases. Common issues include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm shape, and DNA fragmentation.Infertility isn’t only a woman’s issue. Both partners should get evaluated early rather than assuming it’s one-sided.
Myth 2: A man’s age doesn’t affect fertility
Fact: Men have a biological clock too. Research shows men over 45 have higher miscarriage rates and lower live birth rates compared to younger men.Sperm quality, motility, and shape decline with age, increasing risks for autism and schizophrenia in children. For those planning to have children later in life, sperm freezing is worth discussing with your doctor.
Myth 3: Testosterone supplements improve fertility
Fact: Taking testosterone supplements is one of the worst things for fertility. Extra testosterone raises blood levels too high, which signals the testicles to stop producing sperm naturally, sometimes causing sperm count to drop to zero. It works so effectively that scientists have even studied it as a form of male birth control.In most cases, sperm levels recover within 3 months after stopping. But heavy or long-term users may face longer-lasting issues.
Myth 4: If a man can get an erection, he’s fertile
Fact: Sexual performance and fertility are completely different. Men with healthy sex lives can still have low sperm counts, poor motility, or abnormal sperm quality. Many issues remain hidden without proper testing.A semen analysis is the best way to measure sperm count, movement, and shape, giving a clear picture of fertility health. It is important not to assume that everything is fine just because erections occur normally.
Myth 5: Low sperm count means you can’t have children
Fact: Men with low sperm counts can still conceive naturally or with the help of assisted methods. Low sperm counts often point to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, smoking, or excessive alcohol consumption, which can improve with positive changes.For couples needing extra help, assisted reproductive techniques like IUI (intrauterine insemination) place sperm directly into the woman’s uterus, while ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection) involves injecting a single healthy sperm directly into an egg in a laboratory. In the end, it only takes one healthy sperm to start a family.
Myth 6: Most fertility treatments only help women
Fact: There are many effective treatments that target male infertility directly.- Hormone therapy stimulates natural testosterone production.
- Medications can improve libido and manage issues like premature ejaculation without harming fertility.
- Antioxidant supplements such as lycopene, zinc, CoQ10, and vitamins C, D, and E support sperm production and improve overall sperm quality.
- Surgery can correct physical problems in men, including blockages in the reproductive tract, varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum), or cysts in the testicles, all of which can affect fertility.
- IVF techniques like ICSI involve injecting a single sperm directly into an egg, increasing the chances of fertilisation even when sperm count or quality is low.
- DNA testing helps select the healthiest sperm, giving the best chance for a successful pregnancy.
Myth 7: Lifestyle choices don’t affect male fertility much
Fact: How you live your daily life can have a big impact on your sperm health.- Heavy smoking and drinking can damage sperm quality, reducing count, motility, and overall fertility.
- Obesity can reduce sperm motility, making it harder for sperm to reach and fertilise an egg.
- Moderate exercise supports healthy sperm production and hormone balance. But extremely intense workouts or overtraining can disrupt hormone levels and negatively affect sperm.
- Heat exposure from hot tubs or keeping laptops on the lap can temporarily slow sperm production.
- Certain chemicals, including microplastics, phthalates, and BPA, have been shown to harm fertility over time.
Myth 8: Being physically fit guarantees good fertility
Fact: Being physically fit is great for your overall health, but it doesn’t automatically guarantee fertility. Here’s what can affect male fertility despite being fit:- Hormone imbalances
- Poor sperm DNA quality
- Genetic factors affecting fertility
- Exposure to environmental toxins
Myth 9: Male infertility can’t be treated
Fact: Male infertility is often highly treatable.Depending on the cause, there are several effective options:
- Medications for hormone issues
- Surgery to correct structural problems
- Assisted reproduction techniques like IUI, IVF, and ICSI
- Lifestyle changes to improve sperm parameters
- Antioxidant therapy to enhance sperm quality
- Genetic testing to select the healthiest sperm or embryos
- Sperm freezing as a way to preserve fertility for the future
Understanding these common myths about male fertility gives you the knowledge to make informed decisions. Fertility challenges are more common than many people realise, but the good thing is that solutions exist.
FAQs on Busting Male Fertility Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction
- Can stress cause infertility in men?
Yes, stress can contribute to male infertility by affecting hormone levels and sperm quality. - Can men experience secondary infertility?
Yes, men can experience secondary infertility, which is difficulty conceiving after previously fathering a child.