Did you know that nearly one-third of all infertility cases stem from male factors? In many cases, it is the primary reason why a couple cannot get pregnant and, in some cases, a man’s infertility compounds the infertility problems of his partner. When a couple starts working with an OB/GYN or reproductive specialist to determine the reason why they are experiencing difficulties conceiving, it is essential for each partner to have a fertility evaluation…
EARLY DETECTION SAVES TIME AND MONEY
In fact, men should get tested early on in the process. For women, infertility testing can be more uncomfortable, invasive, and costly; therefore, early male factor infertility testing has the potential to help avoid more expensive procedures and unnecessary discomfort for the female partner. Testing for male infertility can quickly identify potential issues.
To determine male factory fertility problems, men will typically be referred to a urologist for a physical exam and a semen analysis to review sperm quantity and quality. If the results of the initial semen analysis are in the normal range, a second sample may be requested to verify the results. Typically, two normal sets of semen testing show that no significant infertility concerns were found. If the test results show something that looks to be irregular, the urologist may require further testing to figure out the specific problem.
A semen analysis can detect several different problems. In some cases, no sperm is being produced or a limited number of sperm are found in the semen. In other cases, there are issues with sperm mobility. When sperm do not move normally, they may not be able to fertilize an egg. Other possible issues that may be found in a semen analysis include problems with sperm morphology. When the sperm’s structure and form are not correct, it could very well cause infertility. Once the urologist determines any problems with the sperm, further investigation, with blood work, urine testing, and possibly other procedures, will be needed to determine any underlying medical concerns that may be causing the situation.
MANY REASONS FOR MALE INFERTILITY
Sometimes male infertility is caused by a physical problem, such as a blockage, that prevents the sperm from being ejaculated in semen. Other problems actually impact the quality and quantity of the sperm produced.
Male factor infertility is often caused by one or more of the following:
- Infections, Including STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases)
- STDs, including genital infections such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, often cause infertility in men. The good news is that the resulting infertility can often be resolved by treating the infection with antibiotics.
- Birth Defects, Blockages, or Other Physical Damage
- Sometimes, men are born with abnormalities that stop sperm from getting into the semen. Some men are born with blockages in parts of the testicle. Prior physical trauma to the prostate, testicles, or urethra may also be the reason behind infertility issues. Doctors may recommend surgery to correct the issue.
- Sexual Issues
- Impotence or premature ejaculation understandably impacts fertility. Impotence is often a result of physical medical issues, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. It can also be a result of one or more psychological issues related to guilt and anxiety. Many find that impotence is a side effect of medications, including anti-depressants, being taken. Men should make sure that their reproductive specialist is aware of any medical issues they have and any medications they are currently taking, as well as discuss potential ways of treating any sexual problems.
- Varicoceles
- Sometimes, enlarged varicose veins (varicoceles) develop in the scrotum. When this occurs, blood does not flow properly. Studies have shown that varicoceles are found in approximately 15% of all men. Those same studies have determined that close to 40% of men being evaluated for infertility have developed varicoceles that may impact their fertility.
- Genetic Illnesses
- In rare instances, genetic diseases, such as cystic fibrosis, or other chromosomal disorders have been found to cause male factor infertility.
- Autoimmune Problems
- For some men, the immune system incorrectly targets sperm cells, treating those cells like a foreign virus. When this happens, the sperm are often impaired.
- Hormonal Issues
- Studies have found that specific hormonal imbalances in either the thyroid gland or the pituitary gland can cause infertility. Often, these hormonal imbalances can be treated with medication.
- Retrograde Ejaculation
- With this particular condition, semen doesn’t come out of the penis during ejaculation as it should. Instead, the semen enters the bladder. Retrograde ejaculation can be caused by a number of things including some medications, surgery to the prostate or urethra, or even diabetes.
ONE STEP AT A TIME
While there are a number of reasons why you may be experiencing male factor infertility, it is important to remember that the first step is determining the issues sooner than later. As a couple, take the time to discuss male infertility issues with your doctor in the initial stages of an infertility work-up and make sure that a semen analysis is scheduled fairly quickly.
If you have been trying to get pregnant for more than one year (or six months if you are over the age of 35), now is the time to take control of your fertility. If you live in the southeast Texas area, make an appointment with one of our dedicated and highly skilled reproductive specialists. The Center of Reproductive Medicine (CORM) has four infertility clinics in Houston, Pearland, Webster and Beaumont, using the latest procedures and most current techniques to help patients achieve their family-building dreams.