Male Factor in Infertility
I’m Concerned - Should I See A Doctor?
If you are a male who is experiencing infertility issues with your significant other, there are several signs that may indicate the need to see our office for testing:
- Sexual function problems such as erectile issues, problems ejaculating, or low sex drive.
- A recorded or diagnosed history of testicle or prostate issues
- Tests that show abnormal sperm count
- Any pain or discomfort in the testicle area, including the presence of lump(s)
- Abnormal breast growth (also known as gynecomastia)
- A decrease in facial or body hair that may be a sign of chromosomal or hormonal abnormalities
Methods to Prevent Issues Related to Male Infertility
Unfortunately, there are many causes of male infertility that simply cannot be prevented. However, there are several lifestyle choices that men can take to ensure that they are at their healthiest when they decide to try and conceive with their partner:
- Drinking little or no alcohol
- Avoiding illicit drugs
- Keeping the weight off
- Don’t get a vasectomy
- Avoiding things that lead to prolonged heat for the testicles
- Reducing your stress
- Avoiding exposure to pesticides and other toxins
Common Diagnosis & Testing Procedures
While it is likely that couples struggling with infertility will desire to have both parties tested in hopes of discovering the issue, there are several methods by which men can currently be tested for an infertility diagnosis. Please note that there are instances where the cause cannot be identified even through testing.
Common diagnosis process may include:
General physical examination and medical history. This includes examining your genitals and asking questions about any inherited conditions, chronic health problems, illnesses, injuries or surgeries that could affect fertility. Your doctor might also ask about your sexual habits and about your sexual development during puberty.
Semen Analysis
The first form of testing your doctor may prescribe is semen analysis. By obtaining a semen sample, tests can be run to determine the motility and viability of your sperm cells. This test could give insight as to whether or not issues are present with the sperm. Depending on the results of a semen analysis, your doctor may recommend other tests as seen below.
Post-ejaculation Urinalysis
If there is sperm present in urine, this could indicate that the sperm are traveling to the bladder rather than through the penis, an issue known as retrograde ejaculation. This could point to the problem with sperm being released during intercourse.
Sperm Function Tests
Sperm function tests can be run to see how mobile sperm are following ejaculation, as well as the ability for sperm to penetrate an egg.
Scrotal Ultrasound
A scrotal ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image of the inside of the scrotum - helping to uncover any issues that may be preventing proper sperm production and release.
Transrectal Ultrasound
In a transrectal ultrasound, a specialist will insert a lubricated wand into the rectum to allow for prostate examination, as well as discover any blockages that may be occurring near ejaculatory ducts and seminal vesicles.
Hormone Testing
Similar to genetic testing, a blood-drawn hormonal test focuses on the hormones produced by the pituitary gland, the hypothalamus, and the testicles to see the levels of hormones present may be cause for issues related to low sperm count or infertility.
Genetic Testing
These tests use blood testing to seek whether or not low sperm counts are a result of a chromosomal imbalance or genetic abnormality.
Testicular Biopsy
A more invasive procedure, a biopsy uses a needle to remove a sample from the testicle to test for any internal issues with sperm transport.