Infertility Essay

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The male reproductive system serves to manufacture the male gametes, known as the sperm. When appropriately timed intercourse occurs, the sperm and female egg are able to fuse together in order to produce a fertilized egg. The male and female reproductive system function equally to ensure that fertilization is able to take place. Once this occurs, the female’s uterus provides an environment for embryonic development until the birth of the baby (Marieb & Hoen, 2007).
There are, however, a number of factors that can affect the male reproductive system that significantly interfere with fertilization, and cause male infertility. These include semen quality, sperm motility impairment, and varicocele (WHO, 2014). Male infertility specifically relates to dysfunctions of the reproductive processes that are necessary for reproductive organ function and the development of healthy sperm. As a result, there is an inability to attain a clinical pregnancy within a year of unprotected, regular intercourse (WHO, 2009).
For the purposes of this paper there will be an exploration of current findings related to problems affecting male infertility, with focus on sperm defects and dysfunction. The importance will be a reflection of new information, and an overall enhanced understanding of the male reproductive system and associated problems.
Discussion
Approximately 15% of couples require infertility treatment options, with half of these cases due to male associated problems (ASRM, 2014). There are a number of factors to consider when examining male factor infertility. In order for fertilization to occur the male must be able to produce healthy, normally functioning sperm. Without this ability, the sperm may not reach the egg and fertilization may...

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...e being sperm defects and dysfunction. Infertility is an equally emotional experience for men as it is for women. Men can have feelings of shame, guilt, inadequacy, and frustration. If a couple requires fertility treatment, it consumes the entirety of their lives. They live each month on a strict schedule centering on ovulation and menstruation calendars, with feelings of both disappointment and hope. This is a topic that requires further knowledge and research, and studies should be aimed to address genetic analysis of male infertility, the human genome initiative, the effectiveness of ART, inclusion into healthcare to reduce costs and associated stress, and improvements in diagnostic testing. It is imperative that there is more attention and research on treatment options for male infertility, and exploration of these methods should be strengthened and encouraged.

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