Andrology
Men can also contribute to infertility in a couple. In fact, in approximately 50% of cases, men are the sole cause or a contributing cause of infertility in the couple.
The testicles are responsible for producing and storing sperm, which are ejaculated to meet the egg.
The most common problems leading to infertility in men are those affecting the functioning of the testicles. Other issues include hormonal imbalances or the obstruction or absence of some of the ducts in the male reproductive organs.
Factors related to lifestyle and age are also relevant.
The complete absence of sperm is the cause of infertility in approximately 15% of infertile men. When a man does not produce sperm, it is called azoospermia. Hormonal imbalance or obstruction of sperm movement can cause azoospermia.
In some cases of infertility, a man produces fewer sperm than normal. This condition is called oligospermia, or low sperm count. The most common cause of oligospermia is varicocele, an enlarged vein in a testicle.