Male Infertility

Male infertility is due to low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, chronic health problems, lifestyle choices and other factors can play a role in causing male infertility.

Often an exact cause of infertility can't be identified. Even if an exact cause isn't clear, your doctor might be able to recommend treatments or procedures that will result in conception.

In cases of infertility, it's also recommended that the female partner be evaluated by OB-GYN. This can help determine if she will require any specific treatments or if proceeding with assisted reproductive techniques is appropriate.

Treatments for male infertility include:

• Surgery
  For example, a varicocele, or swollen vein, often can be surgically corrected. Prior vasectomies can be reversed. In cases where no sperm are present in the ejaculate, sperm often can be retrieved directly from the testicles or epididymis using sperm retrieval techniques.
• Treating infections
  Antibiotic treatment might cure an infection of the reproductive tract, but this treatment doesn't always restore fertility.
• Treatments for sexual intercourse problems
  Medication or counseling can improve fertility in conditions, such as erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation.
• Hormone treatments and medications
  Specialists might recommend hormone replacement or medications in cases where infertility is caused by high or low levels of certain hormones, or problems with the way the body uses hormones.