What is male infertility?

Male infertility refers to a man's inability to contribute to conception after regular unprotected intercourse for a prolonged period, and it may result from problems with sperm production, sperm quality, sperm movement, sperm delivery, or other reproductive factors. It can have multiple causes and is often treatable depending on the underlying condition.

Male infertility is a common reproductive health concern and can occur because of problems affecting the production, quality, movement, or delivery of sperm.

It is important to understand that infertility is not always caused by the female partner. Both partners should be evaluated when a couple has difficulty conceiving.

What can cause male infertility?

Common causes may include:

• Low sperm count (oligospermia).
• Zero sperm count or azoospermia.
• Poor sperm motility.
• Abnormal sperm morphology.
• Varicocele.
• Hormonal problems.
• Infections affecting the reproductive system.
• Problems with ejaculation.
• Blockages in the reproductive tract.
• Previous testicular or reproductive surgery.
• Certain genetic conditions.
• Lifestyle and environmental factors.

In some men, no single cause is identified initially, which is why a proper evaluation is important.

What are the symptoms of male infertility?

Male infertility often does not cause obvious symptoms.

Some men may have:

• Difficulty conceiving with their partner.
• Problems with ejaculation.
• Erectile or sexual difficulties.
• Reduced sexual desire.
• Pain, swelling, or a lump around the testicles.
• Symptoms related to hormonal problems.

However, many men with abnormal sperm parameters feel completely healthy.

How is male infertility diagnosed?

A urologist or andrologist may recommend:

• Detailed medical and reproductive history.
• Physical examination.
• Semen analysis.
• Hormone testing.
• Scrotal ultrasound when required.
• Genetic testing in selected cases.
• Additional tests to identify sperm production or sperm transport problems.

If sperm are absent from the semen, further evaluation is particularly important to determine whether the problem is related to sperm production or a blockage.

Can male infertility be treated?

Yes, many causes of male infertility can be treated or managed.

Depending on the underlying problem, treatment may include:

• Lifestyle modifications.
• Medical treatment for hormonal problems.
• Treatment of infections.
• Varicocele treatment.
• Surgical correction of reproductive tract blockages.
• Sperm retrieval procedures such as TESE, TESA, or Micro-TESE when appropriate.
• Assisted reproductive techniques such as IUI or IVF/ICSI.

The appropriate treatment depends on the cause and the couple's overall fertility assessment.

SCI International Hospital 

At SCI International Hospital, New Delhi, Dr. Vishal Dutt Gour, Senior Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for male infertility, including low sperm count, azoospermia, sperm production disorders, varicocele, and male reproductive tract problems. After detailed assessment, he develops a personalized treatment plan that may include medical management, surgery, sperm retrieval procedures, or coordination with assisted reproductive specialists when required.