When discussing fertility, attention is often centered on women, but men also play a fundamental role. Various studies indicate that the male factor contributes to nearly half of infertility cases, and in many of them it is not detected until a comprehensive evaluation is performed. Understanding which factors influence sperm quality is key to planning a pregnancy and making informed decisions.
How age and lifestyle affect male fertility
Although men produce sperm throughout their lives, its quality does not remain constant. Age can influence sperm motility, concentration and morphology, as well as sperm DNA fragmentation. However, age is not the only important factor: certain habits and health conditions can significantly affect male fertility. Among them are:
- Tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Obesity and an unbalanced diet
- Chronic stress
- Prolonged exposure to heat, such as saunas, laptops placed on the lap or tight clothing.
- Hormonal imbalances or metabolic diseases
The combination of these factors over time can make fertilization more difficult and increase the risk of complications, which is why evaluating male fertility becomes relevant when a couple is having trouble achieving pregnancy.
The importance of the semen analysis
Many couples begin fertility evaluations focusing only on the woman, leaving the man to the side. However, assessing both partners from the very beginning can speed up diagnosis, avoid unnecessary tests and reduce months of uncertainty.
In this regard, a sperm analysis is the primary test used to evaluate sperm quality. It examines parameters such as sperm concentration, motility and morphology, as well as the integrity of sperm DNA. Having this information is essential within a fertility evaluation to understand potential reproductive difficulties, guide the appropriate treatment and plan more effectively the steps toward achieving pregnancy.