The function of male reproductive system is to manufacture, store and transport sperm. Different hormones, the most important of which are testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), regulate this process.
Common Causes of Male Infertility
If the couple has been unable to conceive after having consistent, unprotected sexual intercourse for a year or longer, there may be a male factor infertility responsible. Male reproductive issues are grouped as:
Pre Testicular Issues
They include systemic and hormonal causes of male infertility. A man’s reproductive system may not operate optimally if his general health is compromised.
⦁ Low testosterone
⦁ Obesity
⦁ Psychological stress
⦁ Unhealthy diet
⦁ Aging
⦁ Decrease in the sperm-stimulating hormones LH and FSH
Testicular Issues
Any defects or disorders in the testes are likely to interfere with your ability to conceive. These conditions can be hereditary, or may occur as the result of trauma or prolonged exposure to chemicals or heat. They include:
⦁ Chromosomal disorders
⦁ Infection
⦁ Testicular trauma
⦁ Conditions related to aging
⦁ Excessive heat
⦁ Testicular cancer (and its treatment)
⦁ Exposure to chemicals or pesticides
⦁ Mumps
⦁ Low sperm production and abnormal sperm shape
Post Testicular Conditions
Sometimes sperm you produce may be completely healthy, but they may not reach outside to impregnate your partner. Causes include:
⦁ Prior vasectomy
⦁ An improperly positioned penile opening, also called hypospadias
⦁ Lack of ejaculate
⦁ Complications from hernia surgery
⦁ Retrograde ejaculation
⦁ Erectile dysfunction
⦁ Epididymis or ejaculatory duct obstructions
⦁ A missing or blocked vas deferens
Diagnosing Male Infertility
Dr.Khan can diagnose your condition. He will conduct a physical exam and discuss your medical history and concerns with you. He may then order additional diagnostic tests, such as semen analysis, hormone testing, genetic analysis, or ultrasonic imaging. Based on the information gathered through this process, Dr. Khan will arrive at a recommended treatment plan.
Your Treatment Options
After making the diagnosis, Dr. Khan will recommend an appropriate treatment plan, which may include:
- Testicular sperm extraction (TESE)
- Microsurgical testicular sperm extraction
(Micro TESE)
- Injectable or subcutaneous (administered beneath the skin) stimulatory hormones (e.g., HCG)
- Pharmaceutical drugs
- Nutritional supplements
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), a technique used during IVF (in vitro fertilization) in which sperm is injected directly into your partner’s (or a donor’s) egg.
- If you have previously undergone a vasectomy, Dr. Khan may recommend a vasectomy reversal.
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), a technique used during IVF (in vitro fertilization) in which sperm is injected directly into your partner’s (or a donor’s) egg.