Effects of medical therapy, alcohol, smoking, and endocrine disruptors on male infertility

Authors

  • Fábio Firmbach Pasqualotto University of Caxias do Sul
  • Antônio Marmo Lucon University of Caxias do Sul
  • Bernardo Passos Sobreiro University of Caxias do Sul
  • Eleonora Bedin Pasqualotto University of Caxias do Sul
  • Sami Arap University of Caxias do Sul

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/S0041-87812004000600011

Keywords:

Semen, Endocrine, Sperm, Alcohol, Cigarettes, Drugs

Abstract

Infertility affects up to 15% of the sexually active population, and in 50% of cases, a male factor is involved, either as a primary problem or in combination with a problem in the female partner. Because many commonly encountered drugs and medications can have a detrimental effect on male fertility, the medical evaluation should include a discussion regarding the use of recreational and illicit drugs, medications, and other substances that may impair fertility. With the knowledge of which drugs and medications may be detrimental to fertility, it may be possible to modify medication regimens or convince a patient to modify habits to decrease adverse effects on fertility and improve the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy. Concern is growing that male sexual development and reproduction have changed for the worse over the past 30 to 50 years. Although some reports find no changes, others suggest that sperm counts appear to be decreasing and that the incidence of developmental abnormalities such as hypospadias and cryptorchidism appears to be increasing, as is the incidence of testicular cancer. These concerns center around the possibility that our environment is contaminated with chemicals - both natural and synthetic - that can interact with the endocrine system.

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Published

2004-01-01

Issue

Section

Reviews

How to Cite

Pasqualotto, F. F., Lucon, A. M., Sobreiro, B. P., Pasqualotto, E. B., & Arap, S. (2004). Effects of medical therapy, alcohol, smoking, and endocrine disruptors on male infertility . Revista Do Hospital Das Clínicas, 59(6), 375-382. https://doi.org/10.1590/S0041-87812004000600011