Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: A Time to Prioritize Men’s Health and Fertility
1 month ago, 14 minutes read
September marks Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, a time to shed light on a health issue that affects millions of men globally often silently. At National IVF, we believe that raising awareness isn’t just about cancer prevention. It’s also about ensuring long-term well-being, preserving fertility, and protecting the future of families.
Under the expert guidance of Dr. Usha Karki, one of Nepal’s leading fertility specialists, National IVF is proud to advocate for comprehensive male reproductive health. While fertility conversations often center around women, it’s crucial to remember that male factors contribute to nearly half of all infertility cases. The prostate, a small gland in the male reproductive system, plays a vital role in sperm health and ejaculation. When this gland is affected by inflammation, enlargement, or cancer fertility can be compromised.
This month, we urge all men, especially those planning for parenthood, to take charge of their health. Prostate screenings, open conversations, and timely medical care can make a life-changing difference not just for you, but for the family you may want to build.
The prostate may be small roughly the size of a walnut but its role in the male reproductive system is anything but minor. Located just below the bladder and in front of the rectum, the prostate gland surrounds the urethra (the tube that carries urine and semen out of the body). Its primary function is to produce and secrete a fluid that nourishes and protects sperm. This fluid makes up a significant portion of the semen released during ejaculation.
As men age, the prostate can become more vulnerable to certain conditions, including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), prostatitis, and most notably, prostate cancer. While BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the gland, prostate cancer involves the uncontrolled growth of cells that can potentially spread to other parts of the body.
Globally, prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men, and it’s on the rise even in South Asia. In Nepal, awareness remains relatively low, and many men avoid checkups until symptoms become severe. But early detection is key. When caught early, prostate cancer is highly treatable and often curable.
At National IVF, Dr. Usha Karki emphasizes the importance of educating men about their reproductive anatomy. “Understanding the prostate is the first step toward preventing long-term complications, including infertility,” she explains. By knowing how this gland functions and how it can be affected, men can take proactive steps to safeguard both their health and fertility.
When discussing fertility, conversations often focus on female reproductive health. However, male fertility is equally essential, and the prostate plays a surprisingly significant role in this equation. For couples trying to conceive, an unhealthy prostate can be a hidden barrier often overlooked until it’s too late.
The prostate gland contributes approximately 30% of the fluid in semen. This prostatic fluid is rich in enzymes, zinc, and citric acid, which are crucial for protecting and energizing sperm. Without it, sperm struggle to survive the journey toward fertilization. Any dysfunction in the prostate—whether due to infection, inflammation, or cancer can impair semen quality, reduce sperm motility, or even block ejaculation altogether.
Conditions like prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate) and BPH can lead to pain, urinary issues, and ejaculatory dysfunction. More seriously, prostate cancer and its treatments including surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy can permanently impact a man’s ability to produce or ejaculate sperm.
According to Dr. Usha Karki, infertility specialist at National IVF, these connections are often under-discussed in Nepal. “Many men come to us only after months or years of trying to conceive,” she says. “By then, undiagnosed prostate issues may have already impacted their reproductive potential.”
That’s why routine prostate screening especially for men over 40 is essential. Early detection not only improves cancer survival rates but also preserves fertility options, including sperm banking or assisted reproductive treatments like ICSI and IVF.
At National IVF, we offer specialized services to diagnose and manage male fertility issues, emphasizing the vital connection between reproductive health and overall well-being. Don’t wait for symptoms get informed, get checked, and take charge of your fertility.
Prostate cancer is often called a "silent disease" because it usually develops slowly and may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages. This makes routine screening and awareness absolutely essential especially for men planning to start or grow their families.
While early-stage prostate cancer may be asymptomatic, as it progresses, men may experience:
These symptoms may also indicate other conditions like prostatitis or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), so it's important not to ignore them.
According to Dr. Usha Karki at National IVF, men over 40 especially those with risk factors should begin regular prostate screening. Common screening methods include:
Early screening not only increases survival rates but also allows men to make proactive decisions about fertility, such as sperm preservation before undergoing cancer treatment.
Fertility is often considered a woman’s concern, but in reality, male reproductive health plays a crucial role in conception. The prostate, though small, has a direct impact on a man’s ability to father children. Its health can determine the quality, volume, and motility of sperm three critical factors in achieving pregnancy.
When prostate health is compromised, so is fertility. Conditions like chronic prostatitis, enlarged prostate (BPH), or prostate cancer can cause inflammation, blockages, or damage to surrounding reproductive structures. In some cases, cancer treatments such as radiation or surgery may damage the nerves and tissues responsible for ejaculation, leading to a complete loss of fertility.
At National IVF, Dr. Usha Karki frequently sees cases where men delay medical consultation until they have spent years trying unsuccessfully to conceive. “We’ve helped many couples where the root issue was the man’s undiagnosed prostate condition,” she says. “By that point, fertility preservation options are limited.”
This is why early intervention matters. For men diagnosed with prostate cancer, sperm banking before treatment can be a vital option. In cases of low sperm count or motility due to prostate-related issues, advanced techniques like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) or IVF can offer hope.
Furthermore, emotional factors often come into play. The stress of a cancer diagnosis or chronic prostate condition can lead to decreased libido, relationship strain, and anxiety all of which further impact fertility. By addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of prostate health, clinics like National IVF offer a more holistic approach to male fertility care.
Dr. Karki emphasizes that prostate health should be part of every man’s family planning journey. Whether you're actively trying to conceive or planning for the future, staying proactive about prostate health could make all the difference between missed opportunities and miracles of new life.
When it comes to fertility care in Nepal, National IVF stands out as a pioneer not just for women, but also for comprehensive male reproductive health services. Under the leadership of Dr. Usha Karki, the clinic has adopted a modern, inclusive approach that acknowledges and addresses the often-overlooked role of men in fertility.
Traditionally, fertility treatment has been female-centric. However, statistics reveal that male factors contribute to nearly 40-50% of infertility cases. Recognizing this, National IVF offers a full spectrum of diagnostic and treatment services for men, including:
During Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, National IVF also advocates for increased public awareness about male reproductive health. The center organizes educational webinars, free screening campaigns, and awareness drives to encourage men to get tested—not only for cancer, but for their overall fertility status.
Dr. Usha Karki is passionate about normalizing men’s participation in reproductive healthcare. “Many men feel hesitant or even ashamed to discuss fertility issues. But at National IVF, we foster a safe and respectful environment where their concerns are taken seriously,” she explains.
What truly sets National IVF apart is its commitment to patient-centered care. Every treatment plan is customized to the individual's needs whether they are seeking to become a parent now or in the future. This holistic model ensures that prostate health, fertility potential, and emotional well-being are all addressed with the utmost care.
By empowering men with knowledge and support, National IVF is redefining what fertility care looks like in Nepal, making it truly inclusive and effective.
Taking care of your prostate isn’t just about avoiding cancer it’s about preserving fertility, sexual health, and overall well-being. According to Dr. Usha Karki, preventive care is the most powerful tool men have to protect their reproductive futures.
Here are her top recommendations for maintaining a healthy prostate:
Dr. Karki encourages men to speak openly about any symptoms or concerns with a healthcare provider. “There’s no shame in prioritizing your health,” she says. “A healthy man builds a healthy family.”
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month is more than just a campaign it's a powerful reminder that men’s health is family health. At National IVF, we believe that by prioritizing prostate health, we’re also safeguarding dreams of parenthood, emotional wellness, and the strength of future generations.
Dr. Usha Karki and her team have seen firsthand how early detection, education, and supportive fertility care can transform lives. Whether you're planning to become a father soon or simply want to preserve your reproductive health, now is the time to act.
Regular screenings, open conversations, and proactive lifestyle choices can prevent complications before they start. And if issues do arise, there are advanced fertility options available—from sperm preservation to IVF with ICSI that offer real hope.
Don’t wait for symptoms. Don’t let stigma stop you. Your health matters, your fertility matters, and your future family matters.
This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, take the first step. Schedule a checkup. Talk to a specialist. Choose awareness over fear and life over silence.
At National IVF, we’re here for you every step of the way.
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