What is male infertility?
Typically, male infertility is caused by low sperm production, DNA abnormalities, lifestyle factors, sperm antibodies or erectile/ejaculation issues. Illness, injury, and chronic health problems can also play a role in male fertility.
For a successful conception and pregnancy, it takes a healthy egg and healthy sperm. When you and your partner are trying to start a family, it’s important for both of you to assess your wellbeing in order to increase your chances of conceiving.
Approximately one in six couples are classed as infertile — meaning they’ve had unprotected sex for longer than a year but have failed to conceive. For up to 50% of these couples, male infertility plays a role.
Although infertility can be very frustrating for many couples, there are plenty of treatments and lifestyle adjustments that can help.
All about sperm
- The lifecycle of sperm is 72 days
- Approximately 20 million sperm per milliliter are needed to conceive
- Sperm must have mobility and strength to swim to the fallopian tube
- Sperm are made in the testicles
Diagnosis
Investigation and diagnosis of male infertility requires testing, which involves:
- Looking into medical history
- A physical examination
- Semen analysis
- Blood testing
Preventing male infertility
Avoid toxins caused by smoking and alcohol. Both alcohol and cigarette smoke have detrimental effects on sperm quality and sperm count.
A diet that includes lots of saturated fat, processed meats, excessive caffeine, and soft drinks can have negative effects. Male fertility increasing foods can improve your sperm count and improve your chances of getting pregnant.
If you’re trying to conceive, remember that it can take some time to correct nutrient deficiencies and for your body (and sperm), to reap the benefits of a great diet. Ideally, it is best to be on a preconception treatment plan for at least 3-4 months. It also takes practice to change your current habits into healthier ones.
Treatment
I work with couples to ensure they’re in peak health to conceive. Preconception care includes improving your diet, limiting your exposure to environmental toxins, analysing your use of prescription drugs, and improving your stress management.
I have over 20 years of experience treating male infertility, impotence, low libido, and hormone dysfunction as well as staying abreast of the latest research. Did you know that we are only recently discovering that sperm have their own microbiome?
As a qualified naturopathic practitioner and a retired midwife, I take a holistic approach to help you achieve your pregnancy goals. I understand how natural therapies can work alongside western medicine to enhance fertility. A healthy pregnancy and baby are always the goal, so I only use products that are safe and trusted.
How soon will you see results?
Because it takes around 72 days for sperm to mature, it could be up to three months before you see any real change. The good news is that men often experience a multitude of other benefits when they see a fertility naturopath — including increased energy, better mood, and improved mental health.
The aim of Naturopathy is to offer a holistic, sustainable, non-invasive approach to help heal the body with natural remedies and lifestyle changes.
Book an appointment with Brunswick Health’s Pregnancy Naturopath, Carmen Farrugia.
