Did you know? Male Infertility can be caused by factors other than the unbalanced temperature in the testicles or draining of testicles from swelling. In fact, several infections are also major pests for infertility such as:
1) Orchitis or Epididymitis
Epididymitis is inflammation of the epididymis which is a long tube at the back of the testicles. This infection is caused by STDs like gonorrhoea and Chlamydia or bacteria. The epididymis is a coil-like passage that allows the sperm to move from the testes to the vas deferens right behind the bladder. The symptoms of this infection include redness, tenderness and even swelling in the scrotum. A Lump in the testicles is another sign of Epididymitis. It is always better to practice safe coitus with the opposite sex.
2) Chlamydia
A major infection leading to male infertility is Chlamydia. Symptoms of this infection may include pain or burning sensation when urinating, swollen testicles, and in some cases, you will notice a light-coloured discharge. If Chlamydia is not treated in time, it may lead to blockage and scarring. The best way to treat Chlamydia is via antibiotics. Gonorrhoea causes a burning sensation when passing urine. A dark-coloured discharge is noticeable during the passing of urine and may also cause scarring and blockage if not treated immediately.
3) Mycoplasma
Mycoplasma is a sexually transmitted bacteria which is tiny in nature and latches on to cells. When the sperm is infected with this bacteria the motility of sperm is reduced which then results in infertility but can be treated using antibiotics.
4)Tuberculosis
Though it is a bacterial infection in the lungs, it is known to affect the reproductive system in men especially in India.
Other major infections resulting in male infertility causes are:
5) Mumps
Mumps is termed an airborne disease or virus which results in enlarged or swollen lymph nodes near or under the jawline. Men with mumps suffer from swollen testicles which may result in permanent damage in sperm production. Mumps is common in developing countries like India.
HIV or Human Immunodeficiency Virus is a common factor that leads to infertility in men. HIV causes alterations in the reproductive system and affects one’s sexual desires.
Men with HIV must ensure they use protection during intercourse with their partner in order to avoid spreading the virus. HIV is fairly common in the U.S., Brazil and India thus men from these regions must be careful. Even if they do not have the virus but engage in intercourse with multiple women, they must use protection and get tested every once in a while. It is after all always better to be safe than sorry.
Urinary Tract Infection in men though not as common as in women, plays a key in male infertility. Now because WBCs or white blood cells enter the system to fight the infection or bacteria, a toxic substance is released in the process to kill the bacteria. This causes damage to sperm and in turn, affects fertility in men.
