Male infertility on the rise, suggest IVF experts

ABU DHABI: A lot of men are eager to experience the feeling of being a father but aren’t blessed with this boon yet. Experts suggest that changing lifestyles, stressful work, personal environment, consanguinity and rising levels of obesity, among other factors are major causes of male infertility.

“2 of 9 men suffer from fertility problems,” said Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi, Consultant Reproductive Medicine & Reproductive Surgery, Medical Director, IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic. “Whilst the emotional toll women face when finding it difficult to become pregnant, men are regularly overlooked,” said Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi.

One of the main reasons considered for rise in infertility is the changing pattern of lifestyle. In addition, hormonal imbalances, physical problems and psychological problems also have an interesting correlation between men’s overall health and their fertility. Men who live a healthy lifestyle are more likely to produce healthy sperm. Infections, diseases, poor general health and factors triggered by consanguinity are other common causes of infertility in men in the UAE. Furthermore, factors like pollution and altered lifestyle are the key drivers for the increase in male infertility. Very recently, IVI Fertility Middle East unveiled an “Infographic” which states the most common activities that contribute to raising infertility in men.

“In couples who have not been able to have children, male infertility is the cause in at least 30-40 per cent of cases. The issue is certainly brewing and the repercussions may be phenomenal if turned a blind eye,” said Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi.

Rising cases of infertility across the globe is a significant clinical problem. Globally, 8 to 12 per cent of couples are affected with infertility. Of all cases, about 40 to 50 per cent cases are due to males. This may be due to one or more factors such as poor sperm motility, lower sperm concentration and abnormal morphology.

“Men are known to delay visits to the doctor. However, it is important to note that of the cases of infertility, 40 per cent reasons are connected to the women, another 30-40 per cent are male factors and about 20-30 per cent are combined factors,” added Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi.

“At IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic, we undertake continuous efforts in research and development (R&D) for better understanding of the world of infertility. As a leading IVF institution, we are constantly investing in the development of treatments and technologies for identifying the root cause and offering treatments that deliver high success rates. We are confident that our specialized and experienced team of doctors will soon combat the growing issue,” concluded Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi.

IVI Fertility, headquartered in Spain, is the world leader in infertility treatments with 70 clinics worldwide and a success rate of more than 160,000 babies across the globe. It forayed into the ME with its clinics in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The latest addition is the conveniently located clinic at Muscat that sees patients from Muscat and neighbouring areas and is a prayer answered for the locals of Oman. IVI Middle East Fertility Clinic provides a comprehensive range of infertility services using advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment under the care of an experienced team headed by Prof. Dr. Human Fatemi.