Male infertility myths busted by experts

Infertility, defined as the inability of a couple to conceive a child through natural conception after a year of trying, has seen a significant increase in reported cases of male infertility over the past three to four decades. Dr. Parul Gupta Khanna, a fertility expert with Nova IVF Fertility, Gurugram, sheds light on common misconceptions surrounding male infertility.

Contrary to the myth that male infertility is not affected by increasing age, research suggests otherwise. While women are traditionally associated with a biological clock due to a finite number of eggs, studies indicate a decline in sperm quality and testosterone levels with advancing age in men.

Another prevalent myth is that optimal physical fitness equates to enhanced fertility. Dr. Khanna emphasizes that while physical fitness contributes to overall health, it does not guarantee healthy sperm or improved fertility.

Dispelling the misconception that infertility is always a female issue, Dr. Khanna stresses the importance of acknowledging that infertility can manifest in both males and females. It is crucial to move beyond gender-specific assumptions.

The belief that a man’s occupation has no impact on fertility rates is also challenged. Exposure to compounds like pesticides, plastics, and heavy metals, as well as professions involving electromagnetic radiation, heat, and mechanical vibrations, can adversely affect male fertility.

Addressing the myth that regular masturbation diminishes sperm count, Dr. Khanna explains that while frequent masturbation may be associated with a potential decrease in sperm count, it positively impacts sperm quality. Couples aspiring to conceive are advised to engage in intimacy every other day to ensure the freshness of sperm quality.

Dr. Khanna emphasizes that in many cases, male fertility concerns can be effectively addressed through lifestyle adjustments, targeted supplementation, surgical interventions, and appropriate medical interventions such as sperm freezing, in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), etc.