Infertility is a common issue for men who wish to have a family, with one in 20 young men today having sperm counts low enough to make it difficult to have children – according to Christopher Barratt, Professor of Reproductive Medicine at the University of Dundee in Scotland and a world authority on the human reproductive system.

DR. Chester Lan from DTAP (DR. Tan & Partners) clinic in Robertson Walk, Singapore, looks into this issue and the solutions that are available to young men with infertility issues.

Factors for male infertility 

In order for a male to be infertile, there are several factors that have to be at play. Firstly, their hormone levels have to be correct, as this affects the amount of sex hormones in the body and their sperm production – according to DR. Lan.

As well, DR. Lan adds that the tubes carrying a man’s semen has to be healthy and potent, and the number of sperm should also be adequate. Additionally, the sperms should look normal, and they should be able to “swim” by moving their tail. The DNA inside the sperm also has to look normal, with the man having a sustained erection to proceed with copulation.

Abnormalities are detected through blood tests, radiological scans and semen analysis. If a man is infertile, it is important to identify the cause and correct these appropriately.

What can you do about it

So then, how can a young man proceed, if he knows he is infertile?

According to DR. Lan, you should investigate the factors causing infertility. Have testing for sexually transmitted diseases and get treated if you are positive for anything.

As well, do regular exercise to gain muscle, reduce your stress and thereby improve your cortisol and hormone levels. A good night’s sleep can also boost your hormones. 

In terms of diet, reducing your alcohol intake can also improve your sperm quality, along with taking more antioxidants such as zinc and selenium from foods such as oysters, nuts, beans and green vegetables. These can help to build good quality sperms. Cutting down on processed foods help too, as well as taking more soybeans which contain high phytoestrogen levels.

Conclusion 

All in all, if nothing else helps, seek medical treatment to help with the infertility issues. While DR. Lan adds that the actual cause behind male infertility is yet to be known, but taking these steps will help reduce your risk of it.