Male Infertility Emerges as Leading Cause of Conception Struggles in Accra Research

Introduction

A groundbreaking three-year research study conducted in Accra has revealed a startling statistic: male infertility is responsible for 70% of cases where couples struggle to conceive. This research, led by Dr. Promise Sefogah, Vice President of the Fertility Society of Ghana, challenges long-held cultural assumptions and highlights the urgent need for couples to seek fertility support together. The findings, presented by Dr. Sefogah on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show, underscore the importance of addressing male fertility issues as a shared responsibility between partners.

Key Findings

– **70% of Infertility Cases Linked to Male Factors**: The research conducted from 2022 to 2025 found that male infertility accounts for the majority of conception difficulties among couples in Accra.
– **Couples Should Seek Help Together**: Fertility issues are a shared responsibility, and both partners should attend consultations simultaneously.
– **Cultural Barriers Persist**: Societal and cultural expectations often prevent men from seeking fertility help, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
– **Stress and Medical Conditions Impact Fertility**: Stress, diabetes, and other medical conditions can significantly impair both male and female fertility.
– **Age Affects Fertility for Both Genders**: Male fertility declines after age 40, while female fertility benefits from earlier egg preservation.

Background on Male Infertility

Male infertility has historically been overshadowed by assumptions that fertility challenges primarily stem from women. However, this research from Accra challenges that narrative, revealing that male factors contribute to the majority of conception difficulties. Male infertility can result from various issues, including low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm shape, hormonal imbalances, and lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption and obesity.

The cultural stigma surrounding male infertility often prevents men from seeking timely medical advice, exacerbating the problem. This research emphasizes the need for a paradigm shift in how fertility issues are perceived and addressed within relationships and communities.

Analysis of the Research Impact

The findings from Accra have significant implications for how fertility treatment is approached in Ghana and potentially across Africa. By highlighting that 70% of infertility cases involve male factors, the research calls for a more balanced approach to diagnosis and treatment.

**Shared Responsibility in Fertility Treatment**

Dr. Sefogah emphasizes that fertility is a shared responsibility, and both partners should attend consultations together. This approach ensures that male factors are not overlooked and that couples receive comprehensive care. The research also highlights the psychological impact on women who are often unfairly blamed for infertility issues, leading to emotional distress and strained relationships.

**Cultural and Societal Barriers**

Cultural expectations often shield men from scrutiny when conception difficulties arise. Dr. Sefogah notes that these assumptions create a “cultural diplomatic immunity” for men, perpetuating the cycle of undiagnosed male infertility. Addressing these cultural barriers is crucial for improving fertility outcomes and reducing the emotional burden on women.

**Medical and Lifestyle Factors**

The research also sheds light on the impact of stress, diabetes, and lifestyle choices on fertility. Stress, for instance, increases cortisol levels, which can disrupt hormonal balance and make conception more difficult. Similarly, medical conditions like diabetes can affect egg quality in women and sperm quality in men, further complicating fertility challenges.

Practical Advice for Couples

Based on the research findings, couples facing conception difficulties should consider the following steps:

1. **Seek Help Together**: Both partners should attend fertility consultations together to ensure comprehensive evaluation and treatment.
2. **Address Cultural Stigma**: Openly discuss fertility challenges within the relationship and seek support from healthcare providers who understand cultural sensitivities.
3. **Manage Stress**: Practice stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, and counseling to improve overall fertility health.
4. **Consider Fertility Preservation**: Women delaying childbirth should explore options like egg freezing to preserve fertility potential.
5. **Monitor Male Fertility**: Men should be proactive about their reproductive health, especially as age and lifestyle factors can impact sperm quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

**Q1: What percentage of infertility cases are linked to male factors according to the Accra research?**

A1: The research conducted in Accra from 2022 to 2025 found that 70% of infertility cases among couples are linked to male factors.

**Q2: Why is it important for couples to seek fertility help together?**

A2: Fertility issues are a shared responsibility, and both partners should attend consultations together to ensure that male factors are not overlooked and that comprehensive care is provided.

**Q3: How does stress affect fertility?**

A3: Stress increases cortisol levels, which can disrupt hormonal balance and make conception more difficult, creating a vicious cycle that further impairs fertility.

**Q4: What lifestyle factors can impact male fertility?**

A4: Lifestyle factors such as alcohol consumption, smoking, obesity, and poor diet can significantly impact sperm quality, concentration, and DNA integrity.

**Q5: What is the recommended age for women to consider fertility preservation?**

A5: Women delaying childbirth are advised to consider fertility preservation, such as egg freezing, as younger eggs have better prospects for successful pregnancy.

Conclusion

The research conducted in Accra has brought male infertility to the forefront of fertility discussions, challenging long-held cultural assumptions and highlighting the need for a more balanced approach to diagnosis and treatment. By emphasizing the shared responsibility of fertility challenges and addressing cultural barriers, couples can improve their chances of conception and reduce the emotional burden on women. As awareness grows and stigma diminishes, more couples will be empowered to seek timely and effective fertility care.