Male fertility problems are a significant factor in nearly half of all couples facing difficulties conceiving, according to Dr Ahmad Zaki Asraf, Medical Officer at the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN) Subfertility Specialist Centre.
Speaking on the Bernama TV programme Podcast Kasih Lensa Keluarga on Wednesday, Dr Ahmad Zaki highlighted that the issue remains under-discussed and is often wrongly perceived as affecting women alone.
“International data from the World Health Organisation (WHO) shows that male factors contribute about 45 per cent to fertility problems among couples,” he said. “In society, women are often blamed when conception fails, but men play an equally important role.”
Dr Ahmad Zaki explained that male fertility issues generally involve two main components: sexual function and sperm quality, with sperm abnormalities being the largest contributor.
Analyses conducted at LPPKN revealed that around 60 per cent of male sperm samples were abnormal, affecting sperm count, motility, and morphology.
“A healthy sperm count should exceed 15 million per millilitre, progressive motility should be over 32 per cent, and at least four per cent should have normal morphology,” he said. “Failing any of these criteria can reduce the chances of natural conception, even with normal sexual activity.”
He noted that lifestyle factors such as obesity, smoking, and exposure to second-hand smoke are major contributors to sperm problems. Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances, while chemicals in cigarette smoke can impair reproductive function.
Dr Ahmad Zaki also pointed out that sexual disorders, including erectile dysfunction and premature ejaculation, can hinder sperm delivery even when sperm quality is normal. National health surveys suggest that roughly three in 10 Malaysian men experience erectile dysfunction, including those aged 20 to 35.
Psychological factors, unhealthy habits, pornography consumption, and unrealistic sexual expectations were identified as contributors to the rise in sexual disorders among young men.
To address these challenges, LPPKN has established the Men’s Wellness Clinic, offering health screenings, counselling, and treatment to help men manage fertility and sexual health holistically.
“Men also have their own emotions and pressures. When given a safe space to talk, many actually want to seek help,” Dr Ahmad Zaki said, stressing the importance of early intervention and professional medical advice.
