Male infertility rising in the UAE, clinic says

Dubai: The male partner is either the sole cause or a contributing factor to infertility in nearly 50 per cent of infertile couples, say doctors at Bourn Hall Fertility Centre, Dubai.

Male infertility cases are on the rise worldwide, with the UAE showing higher than average increases, related to modern day lifestyle issues such as obesity, diabetes, smoking and stress, they added.

Addressing the issue, and to create awareness regarding male fertility health, the centre is offering free semen analysis during the month of November.

“We talk about women’s fertility all the time, but generally, men’s reproductive health is either not discussed openly, or it’s completely ignored,” said Dr David Robertson, Group Medical Director, Bourn Hall Fertility Centre.

“We are trying to break this taboo, since the repercussions are too significant to turn a blind eye. A free semen analysis is important because most male-related infertility cases are due to deficiencies in the semen. More than 90 per cent of male infertility cases result from low sperm count, and by a simple semen analysis men can find out where they stand fertility-wise. This is particularly important for couples trying to start a family, and those who are going for fertility treatments …”

The centre has been creating awareness programmes on fertility-related issues, including regular talks, seminars and education classes.