During a significant period of history, society tended to attribute infertility solely to women, paying little attention to men’s reproductive issues (in many cases). According to statistics, in 40-50% of cases of infertility, the cause is attributed to men.
Today, public attitudes towards this issue have changed, as medical education and information has become more accessible to all concerned. Diagnosing and treating men’s health issues are now as common as those for women.
In the case of both sexes, the problem of infertility stems from functional or structural disorders of the reproductive system, and the cause of male infertility can be one of many medical indications, or several at the same time, for example:
Obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia:
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA): A condition in which the testicles do not produce enough sperm, or none at all.
Obstructive azoospermia (OA): Unlike non-obstructive azoospermia, obstructive azoospermia occurs when the testicles produce healthy sperm, but an obstruction prevents sperm from being released.
Hormonal imbalance:
Hormonal imbalances such as low testosterone, which can negatively affect sperm production and overall reproductive health.
Genetic factors:
Genetic disorders such as chromosomal abnormalities or specific gene mutations can contribute to male infertility.
Lifestyle and environmental factors:
Some harmful lifestyle habits (tobacco consumption, excessive alcohol intake, drugs) and environmental factors (exposure to toxins, radiation) can have a harmful effect on male fertility.
In case of difficulties in the fertilization process, both partners should undergo thorough research. For men, this test usually includes:
Medical history and physical examination: In-depth evaluation of medical history, lifestyle factors, and potential exposure to environmental hazards.
Sperm analysis: A diagnostic test that examines sperm count, motility, morphology, and other important parameters.
Hormone testing: Blood tests to measure hormone levels, including testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and more.
Genetic testing: In some cases, genetic testing may be recommended to determine the genetic causes of infertility.
Treatment options:
The treatment of male infertility depends on a specific medical indication, and to determine this, it is necessary to consult a specialist who will plan studies and make an individual treatment plan for you.
Possible treatment options include:
Medications: Some medications can help improve the quality of sperm production, hormonal balance, or background conditions.
Surgery: Surgical procedures may be needed to remove obstructions, treat varicoceles (enlarged veins), or to retrieve sperm directly from the reproductive tract, which is provided by the TESA procedure.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): ART procedures, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), or in vitro fertilization (IVF), can help overcome fertility problems, using techniques such as sperm retrieval and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Changes in lifestyle: Adopting a healthy lifestyle – by quitting tobacco use, reducing alcohol intake, managing stress and maintaining a balanced diet – can lead to positive effects on fertility.
Understand that infertility is one of the most common conditions in men, and don’t blame yourself for something beyond your abilities! We have offered you the general and most common causes, methods of diagnosis and ways of treatment. As we mentioned above, an experienced doctor-reproductologist can guide you to choose the most effective solution tailored to your specific needs, offering the best possible path to address infertility issues.
Carefully familiarize yourself with general information, get to know and prepare for the new adventure of parenthood that awaits you.
For consultation, detailed information, and scheduling a visit with a doctor, please contact us.
In Vitro Life at every step by your side! <3