Male Infertility Treatment

Infertility is the inability to conceive even after repeated unprotected sexual intercourse. It is a common difficulty in males. Male infertility is primarily due to problems in sperm production or sperm transport.
 
Male infertility can occur due to several reasons such as- 
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Signs/symptoms of male infertility are:

  • Inflammation of the testicles
  • Veins of the scrotum are swollen
  • Pain and swelling in the testes
  • Loss in sense of smell
  • Abnormal breast growth in men
  • Sparse facial and body hair

Infertility in men can be diagnosed in several ways. A semen analysis may be done in order to assess the quantity and quality of sperm. A blood test helps determine irregularities in hormonal levels. Physical examination of the scrotum and penis are also useful to identify developmental problems or post-injury effect. Ultrasound of the scrotum may be carried out in order to observe the internal structures and lumps/growths if there are any. 

There are several ways of treating male infertility depending on its cause such as:

  • Surgery – Depending on the basis of the problem, various surgical methods can be used. The vas deferens may be repaired in case of obstruction and sperm retrieval techniques can be carried out to collect sperm directly from the testicles.
  • Infections- Antibiotic treatment might heal an infection of the male reproductive tract.
  • Hormonal treatment- Hormone replacement or medication is taken in case of low hormonal levels which affect sperm production. 
  • Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) - There are many methods of ART such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Intra-Cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI), and Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI). These techniques involve collection, concentration and insertion of sperm artificially in the female reproductive tract. These methods facilitate fertilization of the egg and the sperm.

Certain conditions which increase the risks of infertility in men are- 

  • Smoking
  • Chewing tobacco
  • Alcohol and Drug abuse
  • Obesity
  • Infections of the genital tract
  • Overheating the testicles
  • Harmful radiation on the testes area
  • Injury affecting the testes
  • Vasectomy 
  • Undescended testicles previously
  • Genetic fertility disorder

To prevent infertility in men, it is essential to wear loose underwear and loose fitting clothes. High temperatures in the region of the testicles such as during taking long hot baths and placing the laptop above the testes should be avoided. It is vital to keep away from harmful radiation. Smoking, alcohol and drug abuse must be refrained.