Male Infertility

What is Male Infertility?

About 15% of couples have difficulty conceiving through sexual activity, and in roughly one-third of those cases, the issue is related to male infertility. Several different conditions can contribute to male fertility problems.

The most common causes involve issues with sperm production or function. For example, producing too few sperm can reduce the likelihood of fertilization. In other cases, sperm may have an abnormal shape or poor movement, preventing them from reaching or fertilizing the egg.

Other potential causes of male infertility include:

• Varicoceles, or enlarged veins within the scrotum

• Retrograde ejaculation, when semen enters the bladder instead of exiting the body

• Autoimmune disorders that affect sperm production

• Hormonal imbalances

• Chromosomal abnormalities

Certain medications used to treat conditions such as arthritis, depression, digestive disorders, and high blood pressure may also interfere with fertility.

How is Male Infertility Diagnosed?

If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for a year without success—or for six months if your partner is age 35 or older—it’s recommended that you schedule a fertility evaluation.

One of the most common tests used to assess male fertility is a sperm analysis. During this test, you provide a semen sample that is sent to a laboratory, where specialists evaluate the number, movement, and overall quality of the sperm.

Your doctor may also recommend blood tests to check hormone levels or perform genetic screening. In some cases, additional tests such as ultrasounds or testicular biopsies may be used to examine the testicles more closely and identify potential causes of infertility.

How is Male Infertility Treated?

At Urology Associates, our team develops personalized treatment plans based on the underlying cause of male infertility. Depending on your diagnosis, treatment options may include:

Varicocele Repair:
If a varicocele is affecting blood flow to the testicles and interfering with sperm production, surgical correction may be recommended to restore proper circulation and improve fertility.

Transurethral Resection of the Ejaculatory Ducts (TURED):
This procedure can open blocked ejaculatory ducts, allowing sperm to properly mix with semen before ejaculation.

Vasectomy Reversal:
Men who have previously undergone a vasectomy but now wish to have children may be candidates for a vasectomy reversal, which reconnects the vas deferens to restore the pathway for sperm.

In addition to medical and surgical treatments, our team provides guidance on lifestyle changes that may help improve sperm health and production.

Urology Associates also partners with leading fertility clinics in the region and can provide referrals for assisted reproductive treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

If you have concerns about male infertility, contact Urology Associates to schedule an evaluation and learn more about your treatment options.