The Tough Subject of Male Infertility: How a Urologist Can Help
June 2, 2015
Male infertility is a factor in approximately one-half of cases where couples cannot conceive. This condition can be a sensitive issue for men, but treatment is available.
Symptoms of Male Infertility
The most common symptom of male infertility is the inability to conceive a child after six to twelve months of unprotected intercourse. However, depending on the cause of the condition, other symptoms may include:
Erectile dysfunction
Reduced libido
Problems with ejaculation
Decreased body or facial hair
Low sperm count
Frequent respiratory infections
Pain in the testicles
Causes of Male Infertility
Male infertility can result from a number of possible causes. Some of the most frequent causes of male infertility include:
Hormone imbalance
Genetic abnormalities
Side effects of medication, such as steroids
Systemic infections that cause fever
Undescended testicle
Varicocele (bulging veins above the testicle)
Treatments for Male Infertility
While some cases of male infertility may be irreversible, many cases will respond to treatment. The specific treatment for male infertility depends on the cause. Some of the available treatments for male infertility are detailed below.
1.Varicocelectomy
If the cause of your infertility is varicocele, your urologist may recommend varicocelectomy, which is a procedure designed to repair dilated veins above the scrotum. This procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, so you will typically be able to go home shortly after surgery.
2. Medication
If your infertility is related to hormonal imbalances and/or erectile dysfunction, your urologist may recommend an oral medication or injection to correct the problem.
3. Assisted reproduction
If your infertility does not respond to treatment, you may be a candidate for assisted reproductive techniques, such as intrauterine insemination or in vitro fertilization. If necessary, your urologist may also recommend sperm retrieval with in vitro fertilization.
Seeking Treatment
If you are experiencing symptoms of male infertility, or if you and your partner have been trying to conceive with no success for at least six months, schedule a consultation with a urologist who specializes in the treatment of this condition. During this initial consultation, your doctor will collect information about your medical history and order further tests as needed. If the cause of your infertility is discovered and treatment is available, he or she will be able to explain your options and help you make the best possible decision. If treatment is not available, your doctor will be able to help you explore the option of assisted reproduction.
If your or someone you love is struggling with male infertility, the expert urologists at Georgia Urology can help. Schedule an appointment today by calling 888-819-7115.
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