Male infertility is both common and treatable. If you are in a relationship and ready to start a family but aren’t having success, it may be time to find out the cause.
Actually, it’s 50/50
When a couple can’t get pregnant, the woman was usually tested first. Today it makes more sense for both partners to be tested at the same time. Either one can be the cause of the problem, or both could have issues delaying pregnancy.
Let’s talk about male infertility here
What Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility is any health issue that lowers a man’s chance of getting a woman pregnant and is related to making or moving healthy sperm. If there is a problem and a man is unsuccessful in these two main areas, sperm cannot reach the egg.
Causes of Male Infertility
Male infertility can be the result of the following:
• Decreased sperm production, also known as low sperm count
• Blockage of ducts that carry sperm
• Sperm quality, such as an abnormal shape, also known as poor morphology
• Poor sperm motility
• Hormone imbalance
• Ejaculation disorders due to conditions including thyroid disease, testicular cancer, and depression
• Side effects from certain medications for arthritis, depression,
digestive problems, high blood pressure, and cancer
How a Urologist Can Help
If you are having trouble getting pregnant and taking any of the above medications, contact Urology Specialists for an appointment in Sioux Falls.
Your urologist will do a thorough physical examination. The team of specialists with Urology Specialists will also take a sperm sample to analyze the quantity of seminal fluid, the sperm count, sperm motility, and any morphology.
In addition, sometimes blood tests are performed to identify any hormonal issues. Supplements and hormonal therapy may be the recommended treatments.
Lifestyle issues can also be contributing to male infertility. Smoking and obesity can increase the risk, as can excessive alcohol consumption and drug use. Your urologist will make recommendations about lifestyle issues and how to lower your risk factors.
Finding the root cause is the first step to solving your infertility.
Multiple Treatment Options
Treatments include anything from medications, counseling, hormone treatments, with or without surgery. There is in vitro fertilization (IVF), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and other assisted reproductive techniques available.
Contact our board-certified urologists at (605) 336-0635 if you are experiencing difficulty with fertility.