Father’s Day and male infertility risk factors
For many hopeful dads-to-be, Father’s Day is a time to think ahead to what their future as fathers may hold. Learning about male infertility risk factors from our Orange County fertility specialists can lead to the testing and treatment your partner may need to become a dad.
Male infertility risk factors he can and can’t control
Many men are surprised to learn that infertility is not always a “female problem.” But in fact, only about one-third of couples’ infertility is due to a female factor alone. About 40% of the time, a male factor is either the primary cause or a contributing factor.
The good news is, some male infertility risk factors can be reduced with lifestyle changes.
- Alcohol use – avoid heavy drinking
- Smoking – stop now
- Heat exposure – no hot tubs or saunas
- Obesity – exercise and eat well to lose weight
Unfortunately, some other risk factors are not within your partner’s control.
- Past exposure to toxins, pollution or radiation
- Past trauma or surgery to the reproductive organs
- History of chemotherapy or certain other harsh medications
- Certain genetic diseases and chronic illnesses
- Aging
- Birth defects of the reproductive organs
- History of genital infection, prostate disease or mumps
- Exposure to DES while in utero
- Undescended testicles in childhood
- Family history of infertility
- Having cystic fibrosis
Thanks to advances in fertility treatment, a male factor diagnosis doesn’t mean your man will never get to celebrate a Father’s Day as a dad. Some male fertility problems are treatable, and advanced procedures such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and donor sperm are all excellent options to help men overcome even severe male factor infertility.
One simple test
If your partner has any of the male infertility risk factors, there’s an easy way to get answers. A semen analysis is a simple test that evaluates the quantity and quality of sperm, providing helpful information that can lead to the right treatment if you need it.
Take the opportunity this Father’s Day to talk to your partner about male fertility testing, then contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our Orange County fertility specialists.