Male Infertility: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Common Causes of Male Infertility

Male infertility can be caused by medical, lifestyle, or environmental factors. Some of the most common causes include:

· Low Sperm Count: When the number of sperm in the semen is lower than normal.

· Poor Sperm Motility: Sperm may not swim properly, making it harder to reach the egg.

· Abnormal Sperm Shape (Morphology): Irregularly shaped sperm may not function properly.

· Hormonal Imbalances: Issues with hormones like testosterone can affect sperm production.

· Varicocele: Swelling of veins in the scrotum that can affect sperm quality.

· Azoospermia: A condition where no sperm is present in the ejaculate.

· Infections or Illnesses: Past infections like mumps or STDs can damage reproductive organs.

· Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol, obesity, stress, and exposure to toxins can reduce fertility.

How Is Male Infertility Diagnosed?

If a couple is having trouble conceiving, both partners should be tested. For men, the process is simple and non-invasive.

· Semen Analysis: This is the most common test. It checks sperm count, motility, shape, and volume.

· Hormonal Tests: Blood tests help assess testosterone and other hormone levels.

· Scrotal Ultrasound: Helps detect problems like varicocele or blockages.

· Genetic Tests (if needed): These may be done if sperm count is extremely low or zero.

At Lumina IVF, we ensure this process is handled with full privacy, respect, and care. Our male patients are treated by male doctors, creating a comfortable and respectful environment.

Treatment Options for Male Infertility

The good news is that many causes of male infertility are treatable. Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor may recommend:

· Lifestyle Changes: Improving diet, exercise, sleep, and reducing stress or harmful substances.

· Medication or Hormone Therapy: To balance hormones or treat infections.

· PESA/TESA Procedures: These advanced techniques retrieve sperm directly from the testicles or epididymis in men who have no sperm in their semen (azoospermia).

· ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): A single sperm is injected into an egg during IVF, often used when sperm count or quality is low.

When to Seek Help

If you and your spouse have been trying to conceive for a year without success—or six months if the female partner is over 35—it’s time to consult a fertility specialist. Early diagnosis helps increase the chances of successful treatment.

Conclusion

Male infertility is not something to be ashamed of. It is a medical condition, and in many cases, it can be treated successfully. With expert care, modern techniques like PESA, TESA, and ICSI, and a supportive environment, couples can still fulfill their dream of becoming parents.

At Lumina IVF, we are committed to providing ethical, respectful, and effective fertility care tailored to your needs. If you’re facing challenges with male fertility, don’t wait—reach out to us for expert guidance and compassionate support.