Male Infertility: Causes, Tests & Treatment Options

Yes, doctors may use ICSI in some cases of male infertility. It may help when the sperm count is very low. It may also help when sperm movement is poor or when sperm needs to be collected.

Male Infertility: Causes, Tests & Treatment Options

For many couples, starting a family is a big dream. However, pregnancy does not always happen quickly. Sometimes, the man may have a fertility problem. In other cases, the woman may need help. Also, both partners may have fertility problems. Male infertility can make it hard for a couple to have a baby. Low sperm count is one common cause. Poor sperm movement can also make pregnancy harder. Hormone problems may affect sperm as well. However, doctors may not always find a clear reason.

The good news is that there are treatment options. First, a fertility doctor checks for the cause. Next, the doctor may suggest some tests. After that, the doctor can explain the treatment options. This guide explains male infertility causes, male infertility tests, and male infertility treatment options in simple language.

What Is Male Infertility?

Male infertility means that a man has a problem that makes it hard to have a baby. The body needs to make healthy sperm. The sperm must also move well. Then, the sperm needs to reach the egg. So, problems with sperm, hormones, semen, or the testicles can affect fertility. Usually, doctors check for infertility when a couple has not become pregnant after 12 months of regular unprotected sex. However, some couples may need help sooner.

It is also important to check both partners. Fertility problems can affect the man, the woman, or both.

What Causes Male Infertility?

There are many male infertility causes. Also, more than one problem may affect a man’s fertility.

Here are some common causes.

1. Low Sperm Count

Low sperm count means that there are fewer sperm in the semen. As a result, fewer sperm may reach the egg. This can make pregnancy harder. Several things can cause low sperm count. These include health problems, hormone problems, infections, some medicines, and too much heat around the testicles.

2. Poor Sperm Movement

Sperm need to move well to reach the egg. This is called sperm movement. When sperm move slowly, they may not reach the egg. Therefore, poor sperm movement can make it harder to have a baby. A semen test can check how well the sperm move.

3. Unhealthy Sperm Shape

Sperm also need a healthy shape to work well. Doctors check the shape of sperm during a semen test. If many sperm have an unusual shape, they may have trouble moving or reaching the egg. However, sperm shape is only one part of a fertility check.

4. Varicocele

A varicocele means that the veins around a testicle become swollen. This problem may affect sperm production in some men. It may also affect sperm quality. A doctor can check for a varicocele during a simple physical check. If needed, an ultrasound can give more information.

5. Hormone Problems

Hormones help the body make sperm. For example, low testosterone can affect sperm production. Other hormone problems may also affect fertility. Therefore, a doctor may suggest a blood test. This test can check the hormone levels and help find the possible cause.

6. A Blockage

Sometimes, the testicles make sperm normally. However, a blockage may stop the sperm from coming out with the semen. Past infections can cause a blockage. Surgery or an injury may also cause this problem. Further tests can help the doctor find the cause.

7. Problems With Semen Release

Some men may have trouble releasing semen during sex. For example, semen may go into the bladder instead of coming out of the penis. This is called retrograde ejaculation. Other men may have trouble releasing semen at all. In such cases, a doctor can suggest the right tests.

8. Genetic Problems

Some health problems passed through genes can affect sperm production. For example, some men may have a very low sperm count. Others may have no sperm in their semen. In such cases, a doctor may suggest genetic tests. These tests can help find the possible cause.

9. Lifestyle Factors

Daily habits can also affect male fertility. Smoking may harm sperm. Heavy alcohol use may affect sperm production. Some drugs can also affect sperm health. Being overweight may affect hormone levels. In addition, muscle-building steroids can lower sperm production. Therefore, healthy habits can support better fertility.

What Are the Symptoms of Male Infertility?

Many men with fertility problems do not have clear signs. The main sign is trouble getting a partner pregnant. Still, some men may have other problems.

These may include:

  • Low sex drive
  • Trouble getting or keeping an erection
  • Problems releasing semen
  • Pain near the testicles
  • Swelling around the testicles
  • A lump near a testicle
  • Swollen veins around a testicle
  • Changes in body or facial hair
  • A past injury to the testicles
  • Past surgery near the testicles

However, these signs do not always mean that a man is infertile. For this reason, a fertility check is important. A doctor can look for the cause and suggest the right tests.

When Should You See a Fertility Doctor?

You may want to see a fertility doctor if pregnancy has not happened after 12 months of regular unprotected sex. However, you may need help sooner in some cases.

For example, talk to a doctor if you have:

  • A known fertility problem
  • Problems with the testicles
  • Past surgery near the testicles
  • Sexual problems
  • Problems releasing semen
  • A health problem that may affect sperm
  • A very low sperm count

In addition, both partners may need a fertility check. This gives the doctor a better idea of the couple’s fertility.

What Tests Check Male Fertility?

Doctors use different male infertility tests to find the possible cause. First, your doctor may ask about your health and past treatments. Next, the doctor may check the testicles and other areas. A semen test is also an important part of a male fertility check. The tests can be different for each man. Therefore, your doctor will choose the tests based on your health, symptoms, and test results.

1. Semen Analysis

A semen analysis is one of the main tests for male fertility.

During this test, a lab checks a semen sample. The test may check:

  • Sperm count
  • Number of sperm
  • Sperm movement
  • Sperm shape
  • Amount of semen
  • Other parts of the semen

Sperm results can change from one test to another. Therefore, your doctor may ask you to repeat the test.

2. Physical Check

A doctor may check your testicles and nearby areas. This check can help find problems such as a varicocele. It may also help the doctor find other changes. During the visit, the doctor may ask about past health problems, surgery, injuries, medicines, and family health.

3. Hormone Tests

Blood tests can check your hormone levels. These tests may include testosterone and FSH. FSH is a hormone that helps the body make sperm. The results can help show if a hormone problem is affecting sperm production. Based on the results, your doctor can plan the next step.

4. Testicle Ultrasound

An ultrasound uses sound waves to create pictures of the testicles. This test can help doctors find a varicocele and other problems. However, not every man needs an ultrasound. Your doctor will decide if this test is needed.

5. Genetic Tests

Some men may need genetic tests. Doctors may suggest these tests when the sperm count is very low. They may also suggest them when no sperm are found in the semen. The results may help find some causes of male infertility. Your doctor can explain what the results mean.

6. Other Tests

Some men may need more tests. For example, a doctor may suggest a urine test after ejaculation. In some cases, an imaging test may also help. However, every man does not need all these tests. Your doctor will choose the tests that are right for you.

What Are the Treatment Options for Male Infertility?

Male infertility treatment depends on the cause. There is no single treatment for every man. Instead, the doctor chooses a treatment based on the test results. Treatment may include lifestyle changes, medicines, surgery, sperm collection, IUI, IVF, or ICSI.

1. Lifestyle Changes

Healthy habits can support male fertility.

Your doctor may suggest that you:

  • Stop smoking
  • Limit alcohol
  • Avoid illegal drugs
  • Keep a healthy weight
  • Exercise regularly
  • Eat healthy food
  • Avoid too much heat around the testicles
  • Avoid muscle-building steroids unless prescribed by a doctor

These steps may help support sperm health. However, lifestyle changes cannot fix every cause of male infertility. Also, do not stop any medicine on your own. Always talk to your doctor first.

2. Medicines and Hormone Treatment

Some men may need medicines to treat a certain problem. For example, hormone treatment may help when a hormone problem affects sperm production. However, hormone treatment is not right for every man. First, the doctor needs to find the cause. Then, the doctor can decide if this treatment may help.

3. Surgery

Surgery may help some men with fertility problems. For example, doctors may suggest surgery for some varicoceles. Surgery may also help with some blockages. The need for surgery depends on the cause. Before treatment, your doctor can explain the possible benefits and risks.

4. IUI for Male Infertility

IUI means intrauterine insemination. During IUI, the fertility team prepares the sperm. Then, they place the sperm inside the uterus. The treatment is usually done around the time of ovulation.

IUI may help some couples with mild male fertility problems. However, it may not be suitable when the sperm count is very low. Your doctor can explain if IUI is right for you.

5. IVF for Male Infertility

IVF means in vitro fertilisation. During IVF, doctors collect eggs and sperm. The fertility team then brings them together in a lab. If an egg is fertilised, it can grow into an embryo. After that, the doctor can place the embryo inside the uterus. IVF may help couples with more serious fertility problems. It may also be an option when other treatments have not worked. Male fertility problems can be one reason to consider IVF.

6. ICSI for Male Infertility

ICSI means intracytoplasmic sperm injection. It is a special type of IVF treatment. During ICSI, a fertility doctor places one sperm directly into an egg. This gives the sperm a direct chance to fertilise the egg.

Doctors may suggest ICSI when:

  • The sperm count is very low
  • Sperm movement is poor
  • Sperm shape is a concern
  • Sperm needs to be collected from the testicle
  • Earlier IVF treatment had fertilisation problems

Therefore, ICSI can be helpful in some cases of serious male infertility.

7. Sperm Collection

Some men have very few sperm in their semen. Others may have no sperm in their semen. Even then, sperm may sometimes be found inside the testicles or nearby areas.

In such cases, doctors may use special methods to collect sperm. These may include:

  • TESA
  • PESA
  • Micro-TESE

After collection, the team may use the sperm with ICSI when suitable. Dream IVF also provides male fertility services such as sperm collection and Micro-TESE.

Can Male Infertility Be Treated?

Yes, many male fertility problems can be treated or managed. However, the result depends on the cause. It may also depend on sperm health, age, past health problems, and the fertility health of both partners. For some men, lifestyle changes may help. In other cases, medicines or surgery may be needed.

Some couples may need fertility treatment such as IUI, IVF, or ICSI. Sometimes, doctors cannot find one clear cause. Even then, treatment options may still be available. Therefore, a fertility check is an important first step.

How Can You Improve Male Fertility?

Some simple habits may help support sperm health. 

Here are some steps you can take.

Stop Smoking

Smoking can affect sperm count and sperm health. So, quitting smoking may help support better fertility. It can also improve your overall health.

Limit Alcohol

Heavy alcohol use can affect hormones and sperm production. Therefore, try to limit alcohol use. If you need help, talk to your doctor.

Keep a Healthy Weight

Being overweight may affect hormone levels and fertility. A healthy weight can support better overall health. Regular activity and healthy food can help.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help keep your body healthy. It can also help you maintain a healthy weight. However, choose an exercise plan that is right for you.

Avoid Muscle-Building Steroids

Muscle-building steroids can lower sperm production. Therefore, do not use them unless a doctor tells you to do so.

Manage Health Problems

Some health problems can affect male fertility. For example, diabetes and hormone problems may affect sperm health. So, follow your doctor’s advice and manage these problems well.

Avoid Too Much Heat

Too much heat around the testicles may affect sperm production. For this reason, try to avoid too much heat when possible.

Take Medicines as Advised

Some medicines may affect fertility. However, never stop a medicine without talking to your doctor. Your doctor can tell you what to do next.

Male Infertility Treatment at Dream IVF

Dream IVF in Patiala provides fertility care for couples who are facing fertility problems. The clinic offers male fertility tests and treatment based on each person’s needs.

Services may include:

  • Semen analysis
  • Male infertility checks
  • Sperm collection
  • TESA
  • Micro-TESE
  • IUI
  • IVF
  • ICSI

Every couple has different fertility needs. Therefore, treatment can be different for each person. A fertility doctor can check your health and test results. After that, the doctor can explain the available treatment choices.

Conclusion

Male infertility can feel stressful. However, it does not always mean that having a baby is impossible.

First, find the possible cause. A fertility check can look at sperm count, sperm movement, sperm shape, hormones, and other factors.

Next, your doctor can explain the treatment choices. Depending on the cause, treatment may include lifestyle changes, medicines, surgery, IUI, IVF, ICSI, or sperm collection.

If you and your partner are having trouble getting pregnant, consider talking to a fertility doctor.

Early testing can help you understand the problem. It can also help you learn about the treatment choices available to you.

For male infertility tests and treatment, you can consult the fertility team at Dream IVF, Patiala.

FAQs

What is the main cause of male infertility?

Male infertility can have many causes. Low sperm count, poor sperm movement, unusual sperm shape, hormone problems, varicocele, blockages, health problems, and lifestyle habits can affect fertility. Sometimes, doctors cannot find one clear cause.

A semen analysis is one of the main first tests for male fertility. It checks the sperm count, movement, shape, and other parts of the semen. If needed, your doctor may suggest more tests.

Yes, treatment may help in some cases. The right treatment depends on the cause. Options may include lifestyle changes, medicines, surgery, IVF, or ICSI.

In some cases, doctors may find sperm inside the testicle or nearby areas. The team may collect this sperm and use it with ICSI. However, this option depends on the cause.