Male Infertility

What is Male Infertility?

Around 15% of couples can’t conceive through sexual activity. In approximately a third of infertility cases, this inability is due to a problem with the man. There are several types of male infertility issues.

Issues with sperm cells are the most common causes of male infertility. For example, if you don’t produce enough sperm, you have a lower chance of conception.

Alternatively, if your sperm are abnormally shaped or don’t move correctly, they won’t reach the egg cell or join with it. Other causes of male fertility problems include:

• Varicoceles

• Retrograde ejaculation

• Autoimmune disorders

• Hormonal imbalances

• Chromosomal abnormalities

Additionally, medication for conditions like arthritis, depression, digestive problems, and high blood pressure can interfere with your fertility.

How is Male Infertility Diagnosed?

If you haven’t gotten your partner pregnant within a year of trying (or six months if your partner is 35 or older), you should make an appointment for a fertility assessment.

Sperm analysis is the most common test to evaluate male fertility. You provide a sperm sample, and your doctor sends it to a lab where technicians assess the quantity and quality of your sperm.

Your doctor might also order blood tests for genetic screening and an evaluation of your hormone levels. In some cases, they might suggest ultrasounds or biopsies to examine your testicles in more detail.

How is Male Infertility Treated?

Our team provides customized treatment plans to address male infertility. Depending on your needs, your treatment could include:

• Varicocele Correction: If a varicocele is interfering with blood flow to your testes and sperm production, the team offers surgical repair to restore your circulation.

• Transurethral Resection of Ejaculatory Ducts: The team also offers surgical procedures to open the passages that allow sperm to blend with semen before ejaculation.

• Vasectomy Reversal: If you had a vasectomy but now want to have children, talk to our physician about vasectomy reversals to reconnect your vas deferens.

Our team also provides health advice for optimal sperm production. Urology Associates of Mobile partners with the leading fertility clinics in the area and provides referrals and support for assisted fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

If you’re concerned about male infertility, never hesitate to call us. To receive the highest quality of treatment for male infertility, schedule an appointment today.