A couple may be infertile when they find it difficult to get pregnant after at least one year of unprotected sex. Infertility can become a source of emotional strain among couples as their attempts at conception are unsuccessful.

Male reproductive problems account for about 20 to 30 percent of all cases of infertility. Of these, 50 to 60 percent have been found to be the result of medical conditions.

Causes of male infertility

One of the main causes of male infertility arises from a condition known as varicocele, a swelling of the veins above the testicles, which heats up the scrotum and reduces sperm production. Other causes include:

1. Low sperm count
2. Abnormal sperm shape
3. Sperm that fail to move around correctly
4. Undescended testicle
5. Underlying medical or genetic problem
6. A side effect of medication

However, for a huge 40 to 50 percent of cases male infertility there is no known cause.

Signs of male infertility

Male infertility is best detected through a laboratory examination of a sperm sample. It is often manifested by a decrease in the number, quality and motility of sperm cells. Without need for examination, infertility is often indicated by impotence or erectile dysfunction.

Treatment

There are several medical treatments for male infertility but these procedures are invasive, costly and often unsuccessful. On the other hand, natural treatment options are available and are generally recommended because these do not produce harmful side effects, are painless and relatively inexpensive.

Homeopathy

Homeopathic treatment is often used to treat erectile dysfunction or impotence, and consequently, infertility. Homeopathy is a holistic approach that uses diluted amounts of natural substances to treat certain ailments. It is based upon the principle that “like cures like” or the way of similars. Self treatment is not advisable as a homeopathic remedy requires prior evaluation of the totality of your symptoms and your physical and emotional characteristics. Some homeopathic treatments for male infertility include:

1. Sepia – comes from cuttlefish and is effective in increasing sex drive in men.
2. Medorrhinum – is used to cure on and off impotence.
3. Cannabis Sativa – is used to treat reduced sex drive caused by marijuana use.
4. Lycopodium – a fine, yellowish powder that is used to treat impotence, premature ejaculation or loss of erection during the sexual act.

Homeopathic remedies are made from natural substances and do not have harmful side effects. As a holistic approach, homeopathy is known to improve both physical and emotional health of a patient.

Herbal treatment

The following herbs may be used to treat male infertility:

Asian ginseng

This medicinal root is known to increase male fertility by raising testosterone levels, improve sperm motility and increase sperm count. It also relieves impotence and increases sexual desire.

Astragalus

Prepare a concoction of Astragalus by simmering an ounce of its dried root in a cup of water for 30 minutes and drink a cooled down version once a day regularly.

Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds contain zinc and Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) which help boost sperm production and improve the function of the male reproductive system.

In addition to maintaining a healthy diet and the use of homeopathic or herbal remedies, men are advised to avoid wearing tight underwear, hot tubs and excessive exercise in order to improve sperm production and prevent infertility.