Male Infertility - Possible Treatment

 you are reading this page you have probably been told that you have a low sperm count. If so the first thing you must remember is that sperm count is a very poor test in terms of predicting whether you will actually be fertile or not. So, unless you have almost zero sperm count you should not give up..... There are alos plenty of men around who have normal sperm counts but unfortunatley no children. The fact is that we still are unable to predict precisiely which couples will be fertile and which couples will not!

The following list describes some possible actions;

When the cause for the semen abnormality can be identified, treatment directed specifically at this cause is the most direct and effective plan. In many cases, the cause for the semen abnormality will not be discovered. In this situation, treatment is directed at improving the sperm's ability to fertilize an egg. Even in extreme cases of male factor infertility, if any live sperm can be retrieved either by ejaculation, from the postejaculatory voided urine, or through surgical retrieval from the scrotal sac there are fertility options which have reasonable success. This section reviews these options.
Excessive exposure to heat

Limit your exposure and repeat the semen analysis after 10-12 weeks.

2) Substance abuse, toxin exposure, and medications

Wherever possible stop taking drugs, or smoking, or working in environments where you get exposed to hazardous chemicals. Repeat the semen analysis after 10-12 weeks.

3) Radiation

The effects of low doses can be correctable but high doses may cause permanent infertility.

4) Surgery

Unforunately it is not usually possible to correct problems with further surgery.

5) Testicular failure

If testicular failure is diagnosed as the cause of azoospermia or very low sperm counts it is not usually possible to correct the problem with treatment. Usually the dosctors will try to recover some live sperm and if they can do so they may offer hope through techniques such as IVF.

6) Varicocele

This condition, if believed to be the cause of infertility, is usually correctable by surgery.

7) Intra-Uterine Insemination (IUI)

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) of sperm may be used to improve chances of conception but is obviously a specialised technique involving a lot of options under the control of the doctor.

8) Donor Sperm

In cases where the man is considered infertile the option of using a donor sperm may be suggested. Of course this is a major decision and it is essential to discuss this option with your partner carefully before proceeding.

9) In-Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

There are many possibilities under this option but all require the close coordination with a fertility specialist. The procedures can be relatively complex and costly but there is no doubt that IVF offers hope to couples that would otherwise have none. This is usually the final option available