Question

You are caring for a couple who are trying to get pregnant and have not been able to for over a year. You explain to the couple that diagnostic testing usually begins on the male partner, as these tests are easier. The couple asks what kind of problems a man can have that can cause infertility. What should be the nurse's response?

a) "Erectile dysfunction is the most common cause of male infertility."
b) "Male infertility is often due to hormonal imbalances."
c) "Problems with sperm production or function can cause male infertility."
d) "Structural abnormalities in the testes are the main cause of male infertility."

Answer 1

The nurse should respond that problems with sperm production or function can cause male infertility. Risk factors for male infertility include heavy alcohol use, drug abuse, smoking, exposure to toxins, certain medications, and advancing age.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should respond that problems with sperm production or function can cause male infertility.

Male infertility can occur when there are no or too few sperm, or when the sperm is not healthy and motile. This can be caused by issues with spermatogenesis or blockages in the male reproductive tract. For example, varicocele, which is an enlargement of blood vessels in the scrotum, can affect sperm production.

Risk factors for male infertility include heavy alcohol use, drug abuse, smoking, exposure to toxins, certain medications, and advancing age.