Male infertility is becoming a growing concern in India, accounting for nearly 40% of infertility cases. Health experts point to several factors driving this rise, including increased stress, obesity, poor lifestyle choices, and rising environmental pollution.
Experts believe that early diagnosis and open conversations are key to addressing the issue, which has long been neglected in Indian society.
Dr. Nisha Pansare, a fertility specialist at Nova IVF Fertility in Pune, explained that the rise in male infertility is linked to a combination of lifestyle, environmental, and health-related factors. She noted that high stress levels, smoking, and alcohol consumption have been shown to lower sperm count. Additionally, unhealthy diets, especially the frequent consumption of fast food, are contributing to the problem.
Environmental factors such as pollution and exposure to harmful substances like pesticides and heavy metals are also negatively impacting sperm quality. Certain medical conditions, such as hormonal imbalances, diabetes, and infections, can further affect male fertility. Age is another factor, as sperm quality tends to decline with age. Dr. Pansare emphasized the importance of timely diagnosis and management in addressing these issues.
At her clinic, Dr. Pansare sees 5 to 6 men aged 25-35 with low sperm counts every two months, all of whom are advised to seek fertility treatment.
Dr. Parul Khanna, a fertility specialist based in New Delhi, highlighted that male infertility is often overlooked, despite its significant role in the journey to parenthood. She noted that poor lifestyle choices, exposure to pollution, and a lack of awareness are major contributors to fertility problems. In her practice, she frequently advises men aged 25-35 who exhibit symptoms like low sperm count, erectile dysfunction, and low libido to undergo fertility treatment to achieve their goal of fatherhood.
Dr. Khanna stressed that regular check-ups, staying active, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking are crucial in maintaining fertility. Open conversations with experts can make a significant difference in managing male infertility.
Dr. Jyoti Gupta, a senior consultant at Motherhood Fertility and IVF in Gurugram, pointed out that male infertility often affects emotional and physical well-being, with many men experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, and relationship stress. She noted that the stigma surrounding male infertility often leads to delayed treatment and unnecessary embarrassment.
Dr. Gupta emphasized that many cases of male infertility are treatable. She highlighted that lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, stress management, avoiding harmful substances, and regular exercise play a major role in preventing fertility problems.
She also mentioned that treatments like medication-assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and sperm preservation offer hope for couples struggling with infertility. According to Dr. Gupta, early evaluation, open conversations, and lifestyle modifications are crucial steps toward emotional healing and successful treatment.
Overall, experts agree that addressing the rising issue of male infertility in India requires both a cultural shift in how the topic is viewed and a commitment to lifestyle changes and early intervention.
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