A comprehensive guide of Male Infertility Treatment

 Male infertility is man’s inability to start a pregnancy with his female partner after trying for 1 year with regular sex and no birth control.

Symptoms of Male Infertility 

In some cases, however, an underlying problem such as an inherited disorder, hormonal imbalance, dilated veins around the testicle or a condition that blocks the passage of sperm causes signs and symptoms. 

• Problems with sexual function — for example, difficulty with ejaculation or small volumes of fluid ejaculated, reduced sexual desire, or difficulty maintaining an erection (erectile dysfunction)

• Pain, swelling or a lump in the testicle area

• Recurrent respiratory infections

• Inability to smell

• Abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia)

• Decreased facial or body hair or other signs of a chromosomal or hormonal abnormality

• A lower-than-normal sperm count (fewer than 15 million sperm per millilitre of semen or a total sperm count of less than 39 million per ejaculate)

Common Causes of Male Infertility 

Male infertility is a complex issue that can develop from various medical, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia): This condition is characterized by fewer than 15 million sperm per millilitre of semen. Causes include obstructions in the reproductive tract, such as those resulting from cystic fibrosis or surgical trauma to the testicles.

Azoospermia: A complete absence of sperm in the semen affects about 10-15% of infertile men. This can result from hormonal imbalances or blockages preventing sperm from being released.

Abnormal Sperm Morphology (Teratozoospermia): This condition involves more than 96% of sperm having abnormal shapes, which can hinder their ability to fertilize an egg. Factors contributing to this include genetic defects and exposure to toxins like alcohol and drugs.

Low Sperm Motility (Asthenospermia): Low motility means that sperm do not swim effectively towards the egg, which can be caused by infections, genetic issues, or conditions like varicocele.

Varicocele: This is an enlargement of veins within the scrotum that can lead to low sperm count and abnormal sperm shape. It is one of the most common causes of male infertility, affecting around 40% of men with infertility issues.

Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions such as hypogonadism (insufficient hormone production) or hypergonadism (excess hormone production) can significantly affect sperm production and quality.

Infections: Infections in the reproductive tract, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can lead to inflammation and reduced sperm quality or quantity. Chronic infections may also cause blockages in the reproductive system.

Genetic Defects: Genetic abnormalities such as Klinefelter syndrome can result in low testosterone levels and poor sperm production due to structural issues in the reproductive system.

Environmental Factors: Exposure to heavy metals, pesticides, and other environmental toxins can adversely affect sperm production and quality. Additionally, lifestyle factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are significant contributors.

Ejaculation Disorders: Conditions such as retrograde ejaculation (where semen enters the bladder instead of exiting through the penis) or premature ejaculation can prevent sperm from reaching the egg during intercourse.

Industrial chemicals: Extended exposure to certain chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, organic solvents and painting materials may contribute to low sperm counts.

Heavy metal exposure: Exposure to lead or other heavy metals also may cause infertility.

Radiation or X-rays: Exposure to radiation can reduce sperm production, though it will often eventually return to normal. With high doses of radiation, sperm production can be permanently reduced.

Overheating the testicles: Elevated temperatures may impair sperm production and function.

Drug use: Anabolic steroids taken to stimulate muscle strength and growth can cause the testicles to shrink and sperm production to decrease. Use of cocaine or marijuana may temporarily reduce the number and quality of sperm as well.

Alcohol use: Drinking alcohol can lower testosterone levels, cause erectile dysfunction and decrease sperm production. Liver disease caused by excessive drinking also may lead to fertility problems.

Weight: Obesity can impair fertility in several ways, including directly impacting sperm themselves as well as by causing hormone changes that reduce male fertility.

Procedure Details of Male Infertility Treatment 

Male infertility treatment involves various procedures that can remove underlying causes of infertility. 

Surgical Treatments

Varicocele Repair: Surgical intervention may be necessary, although it is not always recommended unless the varicocele is significant.

Correction of Blockages: Surgical procedures can treat blockages in the reproductive tract, such as those caused by injury or vasectomy. This may involve reconnecting or opening blocked tubes.

Testicular Biopsy and Sperm Retrieval: In cases of azoospermia (absence of sperm in ejaculate), a testicular biopsy can be performed to retrieve sperm directly from the testicles. This procedure is often done under local anaesthesia and can be followed by techniques like Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).

Hormonal Treatments

Hormonal imbalances affecting sperm production may be treated with medications such as gonadotropins (hCG and FSH). These treatments aim to stimulate sperm production and can take several months to show results.

Psychological Support

Infertility can cause significant emotional stress for couples. Professional counselling services are often recommended to help manage the psychological impact of infertility treatments.

How Long Does the Procedure Last? 

• Male infertility treatments can take one to two years or longer to achieve normal fertility.

• Hormonal treatment lasts at least six months and usually one to two years.

• Surgical treatments, such as varicocele repair or correction of blockages, generally have a recovery period of about one to three days, but the overall effectiveness in improving fertility may take longer to assess. The full impact on fertility can be evaluated over several months post-surgery.

• Assisted reproductive techniques are necessary, procedure time can vary widely depending on individual circumstances and may involve multiple cycles of treatment, each lasting several weeks.

Benefits of Male Infertility Treatment 

• Medications can help to restore hormonal balance by increasing testosterone levels and reducing oestrogen levels. This can improve sperm production and overall fertility.

• Hormonal therapies can stimulate the pituitary gland to enhance sperm production, particularly beneficial for men with low sperm counts due to hormonal deficiencies.

• Surgical procedures can resolve blockages in the reproductive tract, such as those caused by a varicocele or previous vasectomies. These surgeries can restore natural sperm transport and improve fertility outcomes.

• For men with azoospermia (no sperm in ejaculate), sperm retrieval through biopsy can facilitate assisted reproductive techniques like ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), increasing the chances of conception.

• ART methods, including IVF and ICSI, allow couples to conceive even with low or abnormal sperm counts. These techniques can significantly increase the likelihood of pregnancy.

• In cases of low motility or abnormal sperm, ART can utilize the existing sperm effectively, maximizing the chances of successful fertilization.

• Nutritional Supplements helps to enhance sperm integrity, motility and may increase testosterone levels and improve sperm count.

• Psychological support can help relieve stress and anxiety associated with fertility challenges. This support can positively impact overall well-being and relationship dynamics.

Risks or Complications Associated with Male Infertility Treatment 

• Fertility drugs may cause side effects such as mood swings, headaches, nausea, hot flashes, disrupt the body's natural hormone balance, low libido or changes in sexual function.

• In surgical treatments there is risk of Infection, Damage surrounding nerves or blood vessels.

• Recurrence of Issues: Even after surgery, there is no guarantee that fertility will improve; some conditions may recur.

• For men undergoing cancer treatment, chemotherapy and radiation may severely damage sperm production, leading to temporary or permanent infertility.

Treatment Success Rate: Analysing Effectiveness and Long-Term Benefits 

• Hormonal therapy for male infertility can be successful for men with low testosterone levels or other hormonal imbalances. Success rates of hormonal therapy generally range between 30% and 40% depending on the underlying cause of infertility. 

• Surgical Treatments, particularly for varicocele, has a success rate of approximately 30% to 60% in improving sperm count and achieving pregnancy, depending on the severity of the varicocele and the presence of other fertility issues. Surgery is more effective in younger men and those with milder forms of infertility.

• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), where sperm is injected into the female partner’s uterus, is often used when sperm count or motility is low. The success rate of IUI depends on several factors but typically ranges from 10% to 20% per cycle. For IUI to be effective, sperm quality needs to be adequate, and the female partner must have normal fertility.

• In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is one of the most successful treatments for male infertility, particularly in cases where sperm quality is poor. Success rates for IVF with ICSI vary widely but generally range from 40% to 70% per cycle, depending on the age of the female partner and sperm quality. For men with severe male infertility (e.g., azoospermia or very low sperm count), IVF with ICSI offers the best chance of successful fertilization.

• The long-term benefits of male infertility treatment can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, and multiple treatment options. It can include improved overall health, increased quality of life, and the joy of building a family.

Frequently Asked Questions About Male Infertility Treatment in India

What are the common treatments for male infertility?

Common treatments for male infertility in India include medication to improve sperm count and quality, surgical procedures to correct structural issues.

How successful are these treatments for male infertility in India?

The success rates of male infertility treatments in India can vary depending on the underlying cause of infertility and the type of treatment chosen. 

Are there any risks or side effects associated with male infertility treatments?

There can be risks and side effects associated with male infertility treatments in India, such as reactions to medications, infection from surgical procedures. 

Are there any lifestyle changes or alternative therapies that can improve male fertility?

Yes, there are some lifestyle changes that can help improve male fertility, such as maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding toxins like smoking and alcohol, and exercising regularly. Some alternative therapies like acupuncture or herbal supplements may also be beneficial, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before trying any alternative treatments.

If you are suffering from infertility and need help regarding your treatment, please connect to Nishma Health Assist Private Ltd. We will love to answer your queries. Our services are completely free.

Contact Number: +918009003879

Email ID: bdteam@nishmahealthassist.com

Website: https://www.nishmahealthassist.com/