Can men have unexplained infertility?
When a man is unable to conceive with his partner, even though semen analysis results are normal, it is known as unexplained infertility. This indicates that the man may have an underlying health issue related to DNA, genetic conditions, or oxidative stress. In such cases, the doctor conducts additional tests to identify the root causes. Lifestyle modifications, targeted medical treatments, and supplements can help treat unexplained infertility in men and support natural conception.
Can men have unexplained infertility: causes
Yes, even men can suffer from unexplained infertility. It can occur due to sperm DNA fragmentation, hormonal changes, immune conditions, underlying health problems, genetic factors, or sometimes lifestyle issues. Let’s explore each cause of male infertility in detail:
- Sperm DNA Fragmentation
When a male drinks excessive alcohol, smokes, or is exposed to pollution, it can damage sperm DNA, preventing fertilisation or causing early miscarriages. This can occur even if sperm count and motility are normal.
- Antisperm Antibodies
When the body produces antibodies that attack the sperm, it impairs their ability to penetrate the egg and prevents fertilisation, even if sperm count and shape appear normal.
- Genetic Conditions
Unidentified genetic or epigenetic abnormalities can also be responsible. Microdeletions in the Y chromosome or other genetic issues may interfere with sperm function without affecting count or motility.
- Hormonal Imbalance
Slight abnormalities in FSH, LH, or testosterone may not show dramatic changes but can still affect sperm function, leading to unexplained infertility in men.
- Sperm function
Issues with the epididymis or sperm motility might not show up in routine semen analysis. Conditions such as partial obstruction or impaired sperm capacitation can be involved.
- Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Unhealthy lifestyle, obesity, excessive heat exposure (from saunas or laptops), toxins, and an imbalance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) can damage sperm quality and negatively impact fertility.
Can unexplained infertility be treated in men?
Yes, according to Medigrace Hospital, the best IVF centre in Nagpur, led by the best gynaecologists in Nagpur, unexplained infertility treatment in men is possible. Treatment begins with a thorough diagnosis. When semen analysis tests are normal, doctors expand the screenings to advanced tests to identify the root causes of infertility in men.
These diagnostic tests include;
- Advanced semen testing: DNA fragmentation tests, oxidative stress assessment.
- Hormonal profiling: Detects subtle hormonal imbalances.
- Genetic screening: Identifies microdeletions or chromosomal issues.
- Immunological tests: Checks for antisperm antibodies.
Based on the test results, the doctor suggests unexplained infertility treatment options, which include lifestyle modifications, supplements, and antioxidants like CoQ10, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc to improve sperm DNA integrity and address deficiencies. Targeted treatments for hormonal imbalances and infections, if any, are also recommended.
If infertility is due to genetic conditions and the problem is not treatable, assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), can be a successful option to help achieve pregnancy.
Conclusion
Even men can suffer from unexplained infertility. It means that a couple is unable to conceive within 6 to 12 months, even though semen analysis is normal and the man shows no clear signs of infertility. The causes are often deeper and underlying, such as genetics, environmental factors, lifestyle, and more. However, conception is still possible by diagnosing the root cause and pursuing the right treatment. Procedures like IVF, ICSI, and IUI can also help achieve pregnancy. For the best treatment advice, consult the top gynaecologist in Nagpur at Medigrace Hospital, the leading IVF centre in Nagpur.
FAQs
If sperm count is less than 15 million/mL, sperm motility is below 32%, and sperm morphology is less than 4% all these signs can tell if the man is infertile.
Varicocele is the top cause of male infertility; other than that, medical conditions, hormonal imbalances, or an unhealthy lifestyle are the common causes of infertility in men.
Consult Dr. Rasika Pise, the best gynaecologist in Nagpur at Medigrace Hospital.
If you can get your partner pregnant within six months, it’s a good sign that your sperm is fertile. But to know for sure, a semen analysis is the best way. This test checks sperm count, shape, and motility, all factors that determine fertility.
