Sperm Parameters and Modifiable Risk Factors in Infertile Males: An Interventional Study

Abstract

Background: Trends of decline in fertility have been observed with emerging lifestyle factors, with large voids in research on male fertility in India. Hence, this study was conducted to find the association between sperm parameters and modifiable risk factors in infertile males.Method: An interventional study was conducted among consenting infertile males attending the outpatient Gynaecology department at Tertiary care centre from 2017-2019. Estimated sample size (n=50), after conducting pilot study. Data collection was done with a standard proforma. Risk factors were assessed using AUDIT, WHO classification of weight status, and perceived stress scale questionnaire; smoking was analysed by questions related to smoking. Intervention was in the form of counselling and instructions and follow up was done at 3 and 6 months. Data was analysed using R software v 3.6.0. Chi square test used to find association, (P<0.05). Mann Whitney test and Friedman's ANOVA were used to find difference between variables, (P<0.05).Results: Mean age of males was 31.22 years with mean body mass index of 23.19 ± 4.14 kg/m2. Association was not observed between semen parameters and obesity, alcohol and stress (P>0.05). Association was seen between smoking and semen PH (P=0.003). Significant association was also found between semen volume and presence of more than two risk factors (P=0.0374). Intervention was found to be effective as observed with improved semen parameters at different checkpoints. Conclusion:Lifestyle associated factors as well as deleterious habits have detrimental effect on reproductive potential. Effectiveness of interventions can help clinicians design patient-oriented strategies.