Male hormone causes of infertility
Hormonal imbalances are often the cause of fertility issues in men, although they may be less so when compared to the same in women. Also, the risk of hormonal imbalances causes infertility in men is higher when they may also be suffering from abnormalities of semen. Anyone with an abnormal semen analysis, especially if the sperm concentration is less than 10 million/mL, should have an endocrine evaluation to understand any underlying hormonal imbalances.
A basic hormonal test involves testing for Follicle-Stimulating Hormone and Testosterone – both of these are essential for the production of sperm. And additional testing may be required for Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Prolactin (PRL), and thyroid hormones levels.
Also, it is important to note that the levels of hormones will fluctuate based on the time of the day. And this means that the time of testing and comparison is just as important. Once the test results are ascertained, compared and correlated with other factors, you will understand if hormonal imbalances play a role in infertility for a man.
Symptoms of male hormonal imbalance
The symptoms associated with male hormonal imbalances include:
- Hair loss
- Excessive fatigue
- Erectile dysfunction
- Depression
- Lowered libido
- Loss of memory
- Loss of muscle tone and mass
- Excessive mood swings
Key Fertility Hormones
The key male fertility hormones include:
- Testosterone – it improves or hampers, hair growth, erectile function, muscle mass, fat distribution, and sperm production.
- Follicle – Stimulating Hormone (FSH) – stimulates the production of sperm.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH) – stimulates the production of testosterone.
- Prolactin (PRL) – effects testicular function, including Testosterone and sperm production, and the ability to get an erection.
- Oestrogen – High oestrogen levels, results in lower Testosterone levels affecting sperm production.
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) – aid production of T3 and T4 hormones, inadequacy of which can result in poor semen quality, low sperm count, erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, and reduced testicular function.
