Infertility is the inability of nearly one in seven couples to conceive while engaging in frequent, unprotected sexual activity for a year or more. Male infertility contributes in some way to up to half of these couples. Low sperm production, aberrant sperm function, or obstructions that hinder sperm delivery can all contribute to male infertility. Male infertility may result from a variety of causes, including illnesses, trauma, long-term medical conditions, lifestyle decisions, and more. Male infertility treatment can be done in a variety of ways, but the inability to conceive can be stressful and disappointing.
Signs and symptoms
The inability to conceive is the primary indicator of male infertility. Other symptoms or indicators might not be present. However, in certain instances, signs and symptoms are caused by an underlying issue, such as a genetic abnormality, hormone imbalance, dilated veins surrounding the testicle, or a condition that prevents sperm from passing through. Among the symptoms and indicators you could observe are:
- Sexual function issues, such as trouble ejaculating or ejaculating little amounts of fluid, decreased sexual desire, or trouble keeping an erection (erectile dysfunction)
- A tumour or pain near the testicles
- recurring infections of the respiratory system
- Lack of ability to smell
- abnormal growth of the breasts (gynecomastia)
- Reduced body or face hair or other indicators of a hormonal or chromosomal disorder
- A sperm count below normal (fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen or a total sperm count of less than 39 million per ejaculate)
When to consult a physician
Consult a physician if, after a year of consistent, unprotected sexual activity, you are still unable to conceive, or sooner if you have any of the following:
- Low sex drive, issues with ejaculation or erection, or other issues with sexual function
- Testicle pain, discomfort, a bulge, or swelling
- A history of sexual, prostate, or testicular issues
- Surgery on the groin, testicles, penis, or scrotum
- A partner over age 35
Management and therapy
Is male infertility curable?
Yes, male infertility can be reversed with a variety of therapy choices. The following may be part of male infertility treatment, depending on the cause:
- Changes in lifestyle. Making certain lifestyle adjustments could help you produce more healthy sperm, such as:
- Keeping you at a healthy weight.
- Consuming more vegetables and fruits.
- Walking, running, cycling, dancing, or lifting weights as part of a regular exercise regimen.
- Stress management.
- Giving up alcohol, smoking, and recreational and over-the-counter drug use.
- Steer clear of sexual lubricants (lube) while having sex.
Medications
Hormone therapy can control excessively high or low hormone levels, which can impact the quality of your sperm. Additionally, you might need to discontinue taking some medications or look for alternatives, such as:
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Calcium channel blockers
- Anti-androgens
Surgery
Surgical treatments may include:
Vasectomy reversal: A vasectomy reversal reconnects your vas deferens to enable pregnancy if you have a vasectomy to stop sperm from entering your semen.
Vasoepididymostomy: With this procedure, an obstruction that stops sperm from entering your semen is removed from your epididymis, the coiled tube that sits against your testicle and is where sperm matures.
Retrieval of sperm: To extract sperm from your testicles or epididymis, a medical professional will perform a biopsy.
Varicocelectomy. Varicocele is a condition where varicose veins in the scrotum cause blood to pool in the testicles. The quality of sperm may suffer as a result. In certain situations, having varicose veins removed surgically may enhance the likelihood of becoming pregnant.
CTA: If you are also suffering from the problem of infertility you are not alone, Sofat Infertility and Women Care Center is with you on this path from initial consultation to post-treatment support, we’re here to assist you throughout your journey in every possible way. Our staff creates a supportive, caring, and nurturing environment, where your feelings are heard and understood. With the help of the latest and advanced technology. We provide you with complete infertility treatment in our hospital.
