Male factors account for 45% of infertility cases, with 60% of sperm samples showing abnormalities, highlighting the need for greater awareness and early screening.
KUALA LUMPUR: Male fertility issues are responsible for nearly half of all cases where couples struggle to conceive.
This significant contribution is often overlooked in society, where women are typically blamed for conception difficulties.
Dr Ahmad Zaki Asraf, a medical officer at the National Population and Family Development Board’s Subfertility Specialist Centre, highlighted the data.
He cited World Health Organisation figures showing male factors contribute approximately 45% to fertility problems.
“Women are often blamed, whereas in reality men also play a major role in this issue,” he said on the Bernama TV programme ‘Podcast Kasih Lensa Keluarga’.
The problem generally involves sexual function and sperm quality, with sperm factors being the largest contributor.
Analysis at LPPKN shows about 60% of male sperm samples are abnormal.
This involves three key aspects: sperm count, movement, and shape.
A healthy sample should have over 15 million sperm per millilitre.
Progressive motility should exceed 32%, and at least 4% should have normal morphology.
Failing to meet these criteria reduces chances of natural conception.
This holds true even if sexual intercourse occurs normally.
Lifestyle factors are a primary modifiable cause of sperm problems.
These include obesity, smoking, and exposure to cigarette smoke.
Weight gain can cause hormonal imbalance in men.
Testosterone converts into oestrogen, which then affects sperm production.
“Chemicals in cigarette smoke can enter the bloodstream and impair the function of reproductive organs,” Dr Ahmad Zaki said.
Some men also experience sexual disorders like erectile dysfunction.
Such disorders can hinder sperm delivery even when sperm quality is normal.
National surveys indicate about three in 10 Malaysian men experience erectile dysfunction.
This includes men aged between 20 and 35.
Psychological factors and unhealthy habits are among the main causes for young men.
Dr Ahmad Zaki stressed the importance of health screening and early treatment.
Seeking professional medical advice is crucial.
To address the issue, LPPKN established the Men’s Wellness Clinic.
It provides health screening, counselling, and face-to-face treatment for fertility and sexual issues.
“Men also have their own emotions and pressures,” he said.
“When given a safe space to talk, many actually want to seek help.”
