Author's details
- Dr. Khashau Eleburuike
- MBBS (Ilorin) MSc. Global Health Karolinska Institute.
- Resident doctor in family medicine in Northern Sweden.
Reviewer's details
- Dr Jibril O. Bello
- MBBS (ABU), MSc (Med. Ed., USW), FWACS (Urol.)
- University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
- Date Published: 2025-03-13
- Date Updated: 2025-03-13
Male Infertility: Information for Patients in Sub-Saharan Africa
What is Male Infertility?
Male infertility refers to the inability of a man to cause pregnancy in a fertile female partner after trying for at least a year. It is a common issue that affects many men in sub-Saharan Africa and can be caused by various factors.
Several factors can lead to infertility in men, including:
- Low Sperm Count: Having fewer sperm cells than normal reduces the chances of fertilizing an egg.
- Poor Sperm Quality: Sperm that are abnormal or cannot swim properly can struggle to reach and fertilize the egg of the female partner
- Infections: Infections like sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or untreated conditions like mumps can block passages preventing sperm flow or decrease sperm production respectively.
- Varicocele: Swelling of veins in the scrotum, which can affect sperm production and quality.
- Hormonal Imbalance: Low or high levels of hormones involved in sperm production.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, drug abuse, obesity, or prolonged and frequent exposure of perineum to heat (such as from sitting for long hours or using hot baths) can affect fertility.
Male infertility usually does not have obvious symptoms, but possible signs include:
- Difficulty in achieving a pregnancy with a partner.
- Problems with sexual function, such as difficulty with ejaculation or erections.
- Swelling or pain in the testicles.
- Decreased facial or body hair (a sign of hormonal issues).
If you are concerned about infertility, it is important to visit a healthcare provider for testing and treatment options. Common tests include:
- Semen Analysis: This measures the number and quality of sperm cells.
- Blood Tests: To check hormone levels.
- Physical Exam: To look for any physical problems, such as varicocele.
- Medication: To treat infections or hormonal imbalances.
- Lifestyle Changes: Stopping smoking, reducing alcohol, eating a healthy diet, and regular exercise can improve fertility.
- Surgery: In cases of varicocele or blockages, surgery may help.
- Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART): Techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be recommended for couples struggling to conceive.
To reduce the risk of infertility:
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
- Maintain a healthy weight through diet and regular exercise.
- Protect yourself from STIs by practicing safe sex.
- Avoid exposure to heat (such as long hot baths) and wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent overheating of the testicles.
Male infertility can be managed with the right diagnosis and treatment. If you or your partner are having difficulty conceiving, don’t hesitate to seek medical help. Many treatment options are available to help improve fertility and increase the chances of starting a family.
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- Agarwal A, Mulgund A, Hamada A, Chyatte MR. A unique view on male infertility around the globe. Reproductive biology and endocrinology. 2015 Dec;13:1-9.
