How to Overcome Male Infertility?

Traditionally, the onus of infertility fell on the female partner. It was wrongly believed that women were responsible for decreasing chances of pregnancy. However, with time, it was discovered through research that male infertility was an equally contributing factor. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), nearly 50% of the total infertility cases were attributed to male factor infertility. Despite its alarming incidence, male infertility treatment is effectively available. 

In this article, with insights from Dr. (Prof.) Col. Pankaj Talwar, leading fertility specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF, we will explore the various treatment options for male infertility.

About male infertility treatment 

Infertility is identified as the inability to achieve conception after 12 months or more of unprotected sexual intercourse. Male infertility is the infertility caused as a result of male factor issues. 

There are several male infertility causes including

• Low sperm count 
• Poor sperm motility or morphology 
• Abnormal sperm function 
• Structural blockages 
• Chronic illnesses such as cancer 
• Injuries to male reproductive organs 
• Poor lifestyle choices 

Before we jump to understanding the diverse male infertility treatment alternatives, let’s begin by learning the causes and ways to identify them. We will begin by noting the fertility test for men.

Male infertility symptoms 

The primary symptom of male infertility is the inability to conceive a child. There are other signs and symptoms relating to the causes of male infertility that may present differently in every man. 

There are no obvious male infertility symptoms. Common symptoms include: 

• Difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection 
• Ejacultion problems 
• Pain, swelling or presence of lumps in the testicle area
• Infections 
• Respiratory infections (recurrent)
• Abnormal breast growth in men (gynecomastia)
• Decreased facial or body hair growth

Male fertility test 

Your fertility testing is dependent on the cause and symptoms of infertility. Usually, male infertility tests are ordered when a person presents with the above-given symptoms or with an inability to help his partner conceive. 

Your fertility doctor will begin by analysing your overall health and have a detailed discussion about your personal medical history. 

He/she will first examine your health by doing a general physical exam. You will be tested for diabetes, high blood pressure, the physical state of your reproductive organs (testicles and penis) and a general checkup about your psychological health. 

Your fertility specialist will ask you a range of questions to understand your fertility potential and health. You can expect to be asked questions about your personal health, family history of chronic illnesses and sexual activity. 

Post this, your fertility doctor may order the following fertility test for men:

• Semen analysis – You will be asked to submit a semen sample through masturbation. The semen sample is washed and concentrated in a laboratory. The concentrated sample is then analysed under a microscope to visualise the number, shape and appearance of the sperm cells.
• Scrotal ultrasound – Your doctor may perform an ultrasound test to visualise any deformities in the scrotum area. A scrotal ultrasound makes use of high-frequency waves to produce images of the scrotum to identify problems like varicocele, problems in the testicles and their supporting structures.
• Transrectal ultrasound – Your fertility specialist may also perform the screening of your prostate through a transrectal ultrasound to identify the possibility of any blockages or prostate enlargement.
• Hormonal testing – Hormonal imbalance or abnormalities can contribute to poor development of your sexual organs as well as impact their functioning. Hormonal issues can cause infertility by hindering sperm production. Hormonal tests are done by drawing a blood sample to measure the levels of testosterone and other hormones.
• Post-ejaculation urinalysis – If you are suffering from a condition called retrograde ejaculation (a condition in which sperm cells travel backward in the bladder instead of coming out of the tip of the penis. Post-ejacultion urinalysis helps in examining the sperm in urine.
• Genetic tests – Certain genetic conditions can be congenital or acquired and impact your chances of conception. Your fertility specialist may also order genetic tests including preimplantation genetic testing to identify genetic or chromosomal abnormalities.
• Testicular biopsy – Testicular biopsy is a test in which a small tissue sample from the testicles is extracted and examined under a microscope.
• Anti-sperm antibodies test – Antisperm antibodies test is a test that examines the semen sample for special proteins (antibodies) that fight against sperm in blood, vaginal fluids, or semen.

Male infertility treatment 

Male infertility treatment alternatives are evolving rapidly. The treatment plan is based on the unique signs and symptoms as well as the cause of infertility. Your fertility doctor will also take into consideration your overall age, health, findings of the fertility test and family goals. 

Some common treatment options for male infertility include:

Surgery 

Your male fertility doctor may indicate surgical intervention for certain conditions. Usually structural abnormalities can be corrected with surgical procedures. For instance, if your infertility is caused as a result of varicocele, your fertility doctor may treat the same with surgery. Surgery can also be used to treat a history of vasectomy.

Medication 

If you are suffering from an infection that is contributing to male infertility, your male infertility doctor may prescribe certain medicines to treat the root cause of the infection. Medicinal therapy can also be used to treat issues like erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation. Medications can also be used for the treatment of hormonal problems.

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) 

If your goal of male infertility treatment is to help your partner achieve conception, then Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) methods can be useful to you. There is a range of treatments available for men including IVF and ICSI. In case of ejaculation issues, your fertility doctor will aspirate semen through TESA, PESA, and MicroTESE.

Home remedies for improve male fertility 

While the above given fertility treatment for men are most suitable and effective measure to treat infertility issues, there are certain measures you can take to improve your reproductive health at home, in your day-to-day life. 

Common lifestyle and home remedies for treating male infertility, boosting your fertility potential and improving your chances of conception are: 

• Tracking the ovulation cycle of the female partner – Having intercourse during or around the time of ovulation can help boost your chances of pregnancy. You can use an ovulation tracking app, or take note of the changes in basal body temperature and cervical mucus to be aware of ovulation. 
• Living a healthy lifestyle – Leading a healthy lifestyle that includes eating a nutrient dense diet, being physically active, maintaining a healthy body weight, getting enough sleep and reducing your stress levels can help boost your fertile potential. 
• Avoiding substance abuse – If you are trying for a baby, you should stay wary of tobacco and also avoid drinking alcohol as these substances harm your sperm health.

The Takeaway

You can seek male infertility treatment at Birla Fertility & IVF, a top male fertility clinic near you. Our experts offer accurate and precision-driven male infertility tests along with a whole array of treatment options suited to your personal needs. 

For more information or personalised guidance, you can book a FREE consultation with Dr. (Prof.) Col. Pankaj Talwar at Birla Fertility & IVF.

FAQs:

• How to check male fertility naturally?

You may be able to keep a check on your fertility based on the following factors: if you are able to maintain or get an erection, if you have any ejacultion problems, if you experience any changes in the shape or size of your reproductive organs.

• Can infertility be reversed in males?

Yes, mostly all of the male infertility causes can be treated effectively with suitable treatment protocols.

• How can I increase my sperm fertility?

You can increase your sperm fertility by maintaining a healthy body weight, eating healthy, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and smoking and reducing your stress levels.

• What diet is best for male fertility?

The best diet for male fertility includes nuts, spinach, lean meats, omega 3 fatty acids, broccoli, meat, fish and eggs.