There are various lifestyle and gynaelogical issues which can affect a woman's fertility (find out about them by clicking here), but often men get left out of the picture, and in reality there are many health issues which can also affect a man's success rate in the conception process.
Past factors that may affect sperm production
A virus like mumps can cause inflammation of the testes (testicles). This swelling, however it is caused, can be painful and is known as orchitis. If both testes are affected then infertility is possible.
A course of radiotherapy or a drug treatment may also affect sperm production. If you require radiotherapy or a drug which may affect long term sperm production, talk to your doctor about storing sperm before treatment commences. If you have had a treatment in the past and are unsure of its long term affects, ask your GP if this could be a possible cause of infertility for you.
If you have had tests which show sperm abnormalities, these may be a genetically inherited problem.
Impaired flow of sperm
A previous bacterial infection (such as a sexually transmitted disease) can block the tubes through which sperm pass.
If you have had surgery for an undescended testicle or twisted testicles, or to treat a hernia, this may also affect the tubes through which your sperm need to flow. It may also have affected the blood flow to the testes.
Retrograde ejaculation
Retrograde ejaculation is when sperm travels backwards. It can be affected by surgery on the urinary tract, and by some medication.
Diabetes can also affect your chances of experiencing retrograde ejaculation.
Quality of sperm
Like women, it is important for men to get the right nutrients and right diet when trying for a baby.
Being overweight can affect your fertility, as can working with certain chemicals or radiation of some kind.
