How Male Health and Habits Impact IVF Success Rates

The semen of a male can significantly affect the chances of fertilisation, embryo quality, and successful implantation during IVF.

Have you ever considered the significance of the male partner’s role in the IVF journey? Most conversations tend to revolve around women and their contributions, while the man’s part is often ignored.

However, the fact is that this imbalance can take an emotional and physical toll on both partners. Research says that male factor infertility is responsible for about 50 per cent of infertility cases worldwide. Therefore, this article will delve into the role of a man in IVF.

Crucial role of males in IVF treatment

The semen of a male can significantly affect the chances of fertilisation, embryo quality, and successful implantation. Therefore, in IVF, even when Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is used, that is, a single sperm is injected into an egg, here, the quality of the sperm still plays a crucial role in the embryo’s development and long-term health.

This highlights that IVF is not just about egg retrieval or hormone stimulation; the sperm matter just as much. Male partners need to undergo semen analysis and, in some cases, advanced diagnostic tests to determine underlying conditions or lifestyle-related issues that may be affecting their fertility.

Understanding the underlying conditions

• Semen Analysis: This is the first step, where a detailed assessment of sperm count, motility, morphology, and overall quality is performed. And, based on that, IVF is planned.
• A further comprehensive male fertility evaluation also includes hormonal profiling, scrotal ultrasound, and genetic testing, which could affect IVF outcomes.

• Both go through certain emotional ups and downs during any fertility treatment. Therefore, open conversations, goals, and expectations need mutual understanding, which will strengthen and create an emotional connection throughout the process.
• The important role that a male partner plays is to learn about the various steps of IVF, such as ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilisation, and embryo transfer. It encourages and strengthens the sense of partnership and reduces anxiety.

• To support overall fertility, males should also follow a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can improve sperm health.
• Reducing intake of tobacco, alcohol, and any other addictions can significantly improve fertility outcomes.
• They need to manage stress, improve sleep quality, avoid exposure to environmental toxins, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and avoid excessive use of gadgets, as this can reduce sperm quality.