What is male infertility?
Male infertility is a common obstacle faced by couples trying to conceive a child, and can result from a wide range of causes, from decreased sperm production to blockages in your reproductive system. While the inability to conceive can be frustrating and stressful, there are a number of options available to increase your fertility if you’re a man.
What causes male infertility?
There are a variety of both medical and environmental causes for male infertility, but some of the most common causes include:
- Varicoceles
- Infection
- Exposure to certain chemicals
- Problems ejaculating
- Antibodies that attack sperm
- Tumor growth on or near your testicles
- Undescended testicles
- Hormone imbalances
- Defects or blockages in the tubes that carry sperm
- Erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Celiac disease
- A side effect of surgery or medication
Infertility can also be brought on by exposure to X-rays, certain heavy metals, and even from overheating your testicles by wearing tight-fitting clothing.
How do I know if I am infertile?
Obviously, the main symptom of infertility is the inability to conceive a child. This is considered infertility if you’re unable to conceive a child after up to one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. There are often no other symptoms, but occasionally you may experience:
- Problems ejaculating (little volume, difficulty completing sex)
- Erectile dysfunction
- Pain, swelling, or a lump in the testicle area
- Recurrent respiratory infections
- Inability to smell
- Abnormal breast growth
- Decreased facial or body hair
- Low sperm count
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, or if you have been trying to conceive for over a year without success, schedule a consultation with Dr. Seaman to discuss your treatment options.
What treatment options are available for male infertility?
In many cases, a direct cause of infertility can’t be immediately identified, but you can often begin treatment before you’re sure of the cause. Treating the root cause of infertility is the first step if one is identified; for example, if varicoceles are present, Dr. Seaman can surgically remove them to improve your fertility.
Hormonal therapy and other medication can also be effective options, as can treatment for conditions like ED or premature ejaculation. In some cases, assisted reproductive technology (ART) can be helpful through processes like obtaining sperm cells surgically, as can testicular sperm extraction.
Treatment varies from person to person, so talk to Dr. Seaman about how you can improve your chances of conception. Call the office of Eric K. Seaman, M.D., or schedule an appointment online today to learn more.
