A doctor has shared insights into one of the prevalent causes of infertility among men and the available treatments.
While women’s fertility often declines in their mid to late thirties, men generally maintain their fertility throughout their lives, provided there are no underlying health issues.
However, some men face challenges that can impede their ability to father children.
Issues like a low sperm count or sperm that lack the strength to penetrate an egg are some of the common problems.
Despite the potential for lifelong fertility, aging can bring about bodily changes in men that may impact their fertility.
For instance, the volume of semen during ejaculation may decrease, and the force of ejaculation may weaken, both of which can lower the likelihood of conception.
According to an article in the New York Post by specialist Dr. Bobby Najari, a condition known as varicocele affects approximately one in five men at some point in their lives.
This condition is frequently identified during adolescence and is responsible for difficulties in conception for two out of five couples.
Varicocele is akin to varicose veins but occurs around the genital area rather than the legs.
It results in the swelling of blood vessels in the scrotum, which can adversely affect fertility.
The swollen vessels can disrupt sperm production, leading to a reduced sperm count and decreased sperm mobility.
If you are consulting a fertility specialist and have varicocele, it is crucial to inform your fertility doctor due to the condition’s impact.
Dr. Najari noted that varicocele is a treatable condition.
The Cleveland Clinic suggests that milder cases can be managed with ice packs and over-the-counter medication, but consultation with a medical professional is advised if there are concerns.
For more severe cases, a varicocelectomy may be performed to remove painful or fertility-impairing varicoceles, as explained by Dr. Najari.
In addition to impacting fertility, varicocele can also cause discomfort or pain in serious cases.
The Cleveland Clinic describes that the precise cause of varicocele is uncertain, but one hypothesis involves a malfunctioning ‘switch’ within certain veins in the spermatic cord, which secures the testicles.
This valve, consisting of two structures, aids in blood circulation to and from the testes, and if it malfunctions, it may result in swelling.
Individuals concerned about their fertility have the option to freeze sperm to preempt any future difficulties in conceiving. This sperm can later be used for in-vitro fertilization if required.