In response to the COVID-19 health issue, we are offering telehealth as well as in-person appointments. Click to learn more.

Some Lesser-Known Causes of Male Infertility

May 22, 2013

Every year, one in six couples will struggle with infertility.

At The Urology Group, we define infertility as being unable to conceive after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. The good news is only 1 to 2 percent of couples deemed infertile are actually sterile, and half of those who seek help can eventually bear a child.

Male-related problems account for 30 to 50 percent of infertility cases. Though most commonly caused by sperm disorders such as low sperm count, male infertility can also result from several diseases, lifestyle choices and environmental factors. Some of the least-talked about causes of male infertility are often some of the most avoidable. Here are some examples:

Mumps

One side effect of mumps, seen in roughly 20 percent of patients with the virus, is inflamed testes. The swelling can lead to fertility issues if damage to sperm-producing cells occurs. Infertility from mumps is preventable with responsible vaccination.

Marijuana

Studies have shown that repeated use of the recreational drug can deplete sperm count and might also negatively affect sperm quality, both of which can cause infertility. Smoking cigarettes can also lead to decreased fertility.

Stress

Severe emotional stress can wreak havoc on sperm count not to mention one’s overall health. Elevated stress levels have been shown to interfere with certain hormones needed to produce sperm.

Celiac disease

Undiagnosed, the digestive disorder characterized by gluten sensitivity can negatively affect male fertility.  Studies have shown that sperm characteristics and hormone levels improved after men adopted gluten-free diets.

Couples concerned about their ability to conceive should visit their physicians. I recommend that the male partner of the infertile couple be evaluated first because testing is often less invasive and easier for men than women.

One in six may sound like a fairly high number, but even if you are diagnosed as infertile, it does not mean you must face a life without children. There are several treatments, from medicine to surgery, that can help in adding a little one to your life. Your doctor can advise on the best options for you.

Recent Featured Blog Posts

  1. Vaping – It’s No Smoke and Mirrors When it Comes to Urinary Health Issues

    Your bladder doesn’t like arsenic. So why are at least one in 20 Americans inhaling it regularly? That is the number of Americans now vaping (not smoking cigarettes). And research shows the tiny particles inhaled from vaping pens, or e-cigarettes, contain many of the same harmful chemicals as in tobacco, a leading cause of all…

    Read More
  2. How Pregnancy Affects the Bladder: What New Moms Should Know 

    Babies and bladders have a relationship that expectant mothers typically learn about in their third trimester of pregnancy when running to the restroom becomes the norm. But for most first-time moms, it’s important to know that the effects of that relationship can linger well beyond delivery day. Childbearing is a leading cause of stress incontinence…

    Read More
  3. Joining Vas Madness? 9 Vasectomy Tips-Offs, Ahead of the Games

    More than half a million men undergo a vasectomy annually. In March that number climbs by as much as 50%.

    Read More

Virtual Assistant

Virtual Assistant

How may I assist you today?

I need help with ‘Directions & Hours’
(Please select a location from the list below)
I need help with ‘ Billing Questions’
(Please select an option below)

I need help with ‘Billing Questions’

What number should I call to pay my bill?

If your bill is from The Urology Group, please call (513) 841-7474 to pay your bill.

If your bill is from The Urology Center, please call (513) 841-7475 to pay your bill.

I need help with ‘Making, Rescheduling or Confirming an Appointment’

If you would like us to call you to set up an appointment, please click here to request a call back.

If you would like to call us, please call
513-841-7400
to speak with a representative.
Our hours are:

Monday-Friday: 7:30am – 5:00pm

I need help with ‘Questions About Test Results’

please call us at:

513-841-7400

Our hours are:

Monday-Friday: 7:30am – 5:00pm

I need help with ‘Medication Refills’

please call us at:

513-841-7400

Our hours are:

Monday-Friday: 7:30am – 5:00pm

I need help with ‘Returning a Call from the Office’

please call us at:

513-841-7400

Our hours are:

Monday-Friday: 7:30am – 5:00pm

I need help with ‘A Copy of My Medical Records’

please call us at:

513-841-7400

Our hours are:

Monday-Friday: 7:30am – 5:00pm