Risk Factors for Men

Infertility is not solely a women's problem. About 30% of infertility cases involve male factor problems alone, and 30% of cases involve problems with both partners. Many researchers believe the causes of declining male fertility during this century are environmental; they include pesticide and chemical exposure, drug use, radiation, and pollution.

The following is a partial list of environmental risk factors to male fertility:

• exposure to toxic substances or hazards on the job, such as lead, cadmium, mercury, ethylene oxide, vinyl chloride, radioactivity, and x-rays
• cigarette or marijuana smoke, heavy alcohol consumption
• prescription drugs for ulcers or psoriasis
• DES exposure in utero
• exposure of the genitals to elevated temperatures -- hot baths, whirlpools, steam rooms

Medical risks to male fertility include:

• hernia repair
• undescended testicles
• history of prostatis or genital infection
• mumps after puberty

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For more information about protecting your fertility.