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DESCRIPTION
Infertility is described as an inability to achieve pregnancy after 1 year of sexual activity without contraception. Infertility occurs in 10 to 15 percent of all couples. Fertility depends on the production of normal quantities of healthy sperm, ability to achieve an erection and ejaculation of sperm into the vagina during sexual intercourse. About 30 to 40 percent of infertility causes can be attributed to male partners.
Until recently, infertility was thought to be primarily a female issue, but modern science has pinpointed many problems that can interfere with a man's ability to impregnate a woman. Some of the more common problems affecting men are:
- Azoospermia - no sperm in the ejaculate.
- Oligospermia - low concentrations of sperm in the ejaculate.
- Asthenospermia - sperm are present but can't swim normally.
- Teratospermia - high proportion of abnormally shaped sperm.
- Retrograde ejaculation - the tube through which sperm normally travel is blocked and sperm may end up in the bladder.
FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Failure to impregnate a fertile woman within one year of unprotected intercourse points to infertility problems. In about 40 percent of these couples, low sperm count, decreased motility and abnormally shaped sperm are to blame.
CAUSES
Anatomical abnormalities of the penis or testicles, including undescended testicles.
Excessive alcohol intake or drug abuse of recreational/street or prescription drugs. Smoking.
Urinary tract infection.
Hormone disturbance.
Endocrine disorders.
Severe chronic or metabolic disorders (such as uremia or cirrhosis).
Mumps.
Use of some drugs, such as antihypertensives, cytotoxic drugs, male hormones and MAO inhibitors.
Sexually transmitted disease, especially syphilis and non-specific urethritis that causes scarring.
Injury to the genitals. Spinal cord injury.
Varicose veins in the testicles (varicocele/vericocele).
Psychological reasons, such as fear of infertility.
Overheating of the testicles caused by vigorous, repetitive exercise or underwear that is too tight and holds the testicles too close to the body (possible).
Intercourse problems, e.g., premature withdrawal, poor timing with menses, too infrequent.
Ejaculatory dysfunction.
Exposure to insecticides or industrial chemicals.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Diabetes mellitus.
Poor nutrition and poor general health.
Smoking (lowers sperm count and reduces erections).
Frequent hot baths and having been very overweight or underweight.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Any specific preventive measure depends on the cause.
General lifestyle changes for male infertility may include:
- Stop smoking and reduce alcohol intake.
- Exercise regularly and lose weight if needed.
- Eat a well-balanced diet and reduce stress.
- Wear loose clothing and swap tight briefs for boxer shorts to keep testicles from overheating.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Some fertility problems are minor and reversible. Often, no clear cause for infertility is found. Approach treatment with optimism.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Psychological distress caused by feelings of guilt, inadequacy, and loss of self-esteem.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
Laboratory studies, such as blood studies of hormones and semen analysis (to determine quality, quantity, form and motility).
Surgical diagnostic procedures such as testicular biopsy.
Special tests of sperm function and quality are available at major infertility centers.
Psychotherapy or counseling for sexual therapy techniques, marital problems, drug abuse or alcoholism.
Surgery to correct anatomical abnormalities of the reproductive system, e.g., varicocelectomy (surgery for varicocele).
Heat may decrease sperm production in the testicles. To prevent this: Don't wear tight underwear or athletic supporters that hold the testicles too close to the body, don't take hot baths, avoid long bicycle rides.
Have sexual intercourse during the time your partner is ovulating. Don't ejaculate for 3 days prior to intercourse. Intercourse should occur every 36 hours during the fertile period.
Consider other methods for initiating a pregnancy: artificial insemination of washed concentrated sperm; donor insemination if no remedy is presently available; intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) whereby a single sperm is injected into a single egg and the resulting zygote is transferred to the uterus.
The Conception Kit™
by Conceivex Inc
The only Conception Kit approved by the FDA
For use in the United States. This kit contains
a 3 month supply of Conceivex conception products.
MoonDragon's Conception Information
Using The Conception Kit™ Instructions
& Ordering Information
Additional information available from the: Fertility Research Foundation
1430 Second Avenue, Suite 103
New York, NY 10021
(212) 744-5500
or
American Fertility Society
1209 Montgomery Hwy
Birmingham, AL 35216-2809
(205) 978-5000
MEDICATION
Medication may be prescribed depending on the cause of infertility.
ACTIVITY
Work and exercise moderately. Over exercising can be a factor in infertility. Rest when you tire.
DIET
Eat a normal, well-balanced diet. Increased intake of zinc, vitamin C and vitamin E is sometimes recommended.
Beneficial Dietary Supplements:
- Selenium is important to maintain optimal sperm count.
- Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids aids sperm production.
- Vitamin E, known as the "sex vitamin", carries oxygen to the sex organs and increases sperm count.
- Zinc is important for the functioning of the reproductive organs.
- Essential Fatty Acids are essential for normal glandular activity.
- L-Arginine, when used with L-Cysteine and L-Methionine increases sperm count and plays a role in sperm motility.
- Astragalus stimulates sperm motility.
- Green Oat Extract helps maintain an erection.
- Horny Goat Weed is a male aphrodisiac that may increase sperm count and semen density.
NUTRITION SUGGESTIONS FOR INFERTILITY
For more information about fertility and recommendations for both partners, see:
MoonDragon's Health Information: Infertility - Male & Female
Nutrients Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Essential Selenium 200-400 mcg daily. Deficiency leads to reduced sperm count and has been linked to sterility in men and infertility in women. Selenium Supplement, Yeast-Free, NOW Foods, 200 mcg, 180 Caps, Selenium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. Vitamin C 2,000-6,000 mg daily, in divided dosages. Important in sperm production. Keeps the sperm from clumping, and makes them more motile. Vitamin C Liquid, with Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, 1,000 mg, 16 fl. oz., Dynamic Health, Effer-C Instant Fizzy Vitamin C Drink Mix Powder, Lemon-Lime (Other flavors available), 1,000 mg, 36 0.3-ounce Packets, Vitamin C 1000 W/Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1,000 mg, 250 Vcaps Vitamin E Start with 200 IU daily and increase gradually to 400-1,000 IU daily. Needed for balanced hormone production. Has been known as the "sex vitamin" that carries oxygen to the sex organs. Vitamin E - 1000, NOW Foods, 100 Gels, Vitamin E, 400 IU, 100% Natural, NOW Foods, 100 Gels Zinc 80 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg from all supplements. Important for the functioning of the reproductive organs. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best results. Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz., Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps Important Dimethyl glycine (DMG) As directed on label. Increases oxygen supply in the blood to all tissues. Use a sublingual form, if possible. DMG Supplement N, N Dimethyl Glycine, NOW Foods, 125 mg, 100 Caps Liver Extract Injections As prescribed by a health care provider, twice weekly. Found to be beneficial in promoting function of the sex organs. Octacosanol As directed on label. The heart of wheat germ. Aids in hormone production. Octacosanol, 5,000 mcg, NOW Foods, 100 Caps, Wheat Germ Oil, Expeller Pressed, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 16 fl. oz. Helpful Essential fatty acids As directed on label. Essential for normal glandular function and activity, especially for the reproductive system. Ultimate Oil, Essential Fatty Acids, Nature's Secret, 90 Softgels, Omega 3-6-9, NOW Foods, Organic, 16 fl. oz. L-Arginine
Plus
L-Cysteine
And
L-MethionineAs directed on label. Increases sperm count and plays a role in sperm motility. Sulfur-containing amino acids that are effective free radical destroyers and chelating agents that protect glandular and hormonal function. L-Arginine, Pharmaceutical Grade, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps, L-Cysteine HCL, w/Vitamin B-6 & C, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Tabs, L-Methionine, 500 mg Plus B-6, 10 mg, 100 Caps Plus
L-Tyrosine500 mg daily, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. Alleviates stress and aids in stabilizing moods. See Amino Acids for more information. Caution: Do not take this supplement if you are taking an MAO inhibitor drug. L-Tyrosine, Pharmaceutical Grade, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 120 Caps Manganese As directed on label. Take separately from calcium. Maintains sex hormone production. Manganese Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 30 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. Proteolytic enzymes As directed on label. Take between meals. Aids in the breakdown of foods. Facilitates absorption of nutrients. MetabolicZyme (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 900 Tabs Raw ovarian glandular As directed on label. For women. Supports ovarian function. See Glandular Therapy for more information. Vitamin A
Plus
Natural beta-carotene
Or
Carotenoid complex (Betatene)15,000 IU daily.
15,000 IU daily.
As directed on label.Important in reproductive gland function. Vitamin A, 10,000 IU, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Softgels, Beta Carotene (Natural Dunalielia salina), Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 25,000 IU, 100 Softgels Vitamin B complex
Plus extra
Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5
And
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
And
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)50 mg daily.
As directed on label.
50 mg 3 times daily.
50 mg daily.Important in reproductive gland function.
Maintains sex hormone production. Helpful for stress
Needed for the synthesis of RNA and DNA.
Plays a role in restoring fertility in some women. Vitamin B 100 Complex, Nature's Way, 100 Caps
HERBAL & HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
HERBS
Astragalus extract has been reported to stimulate sperm motility. Caution: Do not use this herb in the presence of a fever.
Damiana, ginseng, sarsaparilla, saw palmetto, and yohimbe enhance sexual function in men. Do not use ginseng if you have high blood pressure.
MALE INFERTILITY SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS
Information, supplements and products for infertility (male),the inability for a couple to achieve conception after a year of unprotected intercourse.
Maca (Lepidum meyenii) Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Today Maca is used to increase energy and support the immune system. Maca can help a number of conditions from fatigue to frigidity.Male Performance Formula, TestoJack NOW Foods 100 - 60 Vcaps
The combination of ingredients in TestoJack 100 provides enhanced energy levels without the anxiety or insomnia that accompanies other energy supplements, as well as overall support for men's health.Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000mg - 250 Vcaps
Nature's Way Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids provides antioxidant protection for many of the body's important enzyme systems.Gokshura Powder (Tribulus terrestris), 100% Organic - 8 oz. Bulk
The increase in testosterone levels by Tribulus will promote protein synthesis, positive nitrogen balance as well as faster recuperation and recovery from muscular stress.Selenium 100% Natural, 200mcg - 100 Caps
Selenium is an essential component of glutathione, the body's most potent natural antioxidant system. It is a popular choice in many antioxidant regimens.Selenium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm - 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Selenium is pure liquid Selenium supplement. Selenium promotes normal body growth, enhances fertility, encourages tissue elasticity and is a potent antioxidant that naturally reduces the retention of toxic metals in the body. Selenium is crucial for the proper functioning of the heart muscle and there is evidence that it can help the body fight cancer.Vitamin E, d-alpha tocopherol 400 IU - 100 Softgels
Vitamin E has potent antioxidant activity, supplies oxygen to the blood, aids in strengthening capillary walls, and plays a beneficial role in cancer and cardiovascular disease prevention, anti-aging benefits, circulation, wound-healing, immune function, nervous system function, PMS, hot flushes, diabetes, vascular disease, eye health, tissue repair, athletic performance, leg cramps, skin and hair health, and alleviating fatigue.Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way 30mg - 100 Caps
Zinc is present in all tissues, organs and secretions of the body. Nature's Way chelated zinc is 100% natural chelated with an advanced amino acid complex for superior absorption.Fish Oil / Fisol, EPA DHA, Enteric Coated, Nature's Way 500mg - 90 Softgels
Scientific research confirms the important role of Omega-3 essential fatty acids in maintaining healthy blood triglyceride levels, as well as supporting the heart, skin and joints. Fish Oil contains an abundance of two-key Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids, EPA and DHA.L-Methionine, 500mg + B-6, 10mg - 100 Caps
L-Methionine is an essential sulfur amino acid. The body cannot produce L-Methionine, which must be obtained from food or supplement sources.Astragalus Root Tincture, 100% Organic - 2 fl. oz.
Astragalus root is used to stimulate the immune system and astragalus root improves adrenal gland function and digestion.Horny Goat Weed w/ Maca, 808mg - 60 Caps Standardized Formula for Men & Women
Horny Goat Weed provides a serious boost to men or women who need it. Based on the latest scientific research into performance and well-being. Each safe, highly potent capsule contains a unique and powerful complex of herbs formulated to support libido and sexual activity. Horny Goat Weed is an all-natural phyto-aphrodisiac.Spermarize Male Fertility Supplement Formula - 90 Tabs
Spermarize Male Fertility Supplement has been developed and used in China to increase male sperm count and the mobility of human sperm.Chromium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm - 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Chromium is a pure liquid chromium supplement. Chromium helps the body regulate metabolism, regulate insulin and blood sugar levels, helps the body lose weight by stimulating enzymes that metabolize glucose, burns fat. Chromium deficiencies may contribute to Infertility and decreased sperm count.Tribulus Terrestris Organic Standardized Extract, 1000mg - 30 Tabs
Tribulus is Nature's master hormone regulator for men and women and has been used for centuries to treat a wide variety of health problems including loss of libido (sex drive), impotence, infertility, edema, liver, kidney and heart problems, PMS, menopause, and more. Tribulus is a safe, non-hormonal food supplement prepared from the herb, Tribulus terrestris.Multi Mineral Complex w/ Iron -Nature's Way 100 Caps
Nature's Way Multi Mineral Complex with Iron offers a complete carefully dosed blend of minerals vital to the body. This multi-mineral provides nutritional support for normal bone development, muscle function, reproduction and metabolism.Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin & Mineral with Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's Way - 90 Tabs
No other supplement contains more life-giving nutrients than Nature's Way ALIVE! It is better absorbed into your blood stream because its tablets disintegrate up to 5X faster than other leading brands.
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
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OTHER HELPFUL PRODUCTS & BOOKS - MALE INFERTILITY
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member has symptoms of infertility and wants help.
Conception doesn't occur within 6 months, despite recommendations and treatment.
LINKS
