Kolkata Sees Alarming Rise in Male Infertility

In Kolkata, male infertility has seen a concerning rise, with experts noting a nearly 20% increase over the last decade. This trend means men now constitute a significant 35%-40% of all infertility cases in the city. The total fertility rate in Bengal has also declined to 1.3, well below the replacement level.

Studies indicate that a substantial portion of Indian men do not meet normal semen parameters, with sperm counts dropping significantly over the past 30 years. Common issues include poor sperm motility and low sperm count, primarily observed in men aged 35-40. Delays in seeking professional help, often due to sexual disinterest or dysfunction, further complicate matters.

Fertility experts highlight that lifestyle factors are major contributors to this surge. Stress, unhealthy diets, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, and hypothyroid conditions in men are primary reasons. While women are often still blamed for childlessness, experts urge men to undergo sperm analysis if a couple faces conception issues for over a year.

Given that medical treatments often fall short, IVF and more intensive methods like intracytoplasmic sperm injections are becoming the go-to solutions. The delay in seeking help, with many opting for supplements first, can reduce treatment success, particularly as women's age increases.