Description
Male infertility is the inability to produce a pregnancy due to issues with the male sex partner. It is estimated that 20% of cases of infertility are the result of primary male infertility issues. The cause can be related to hormonal problems, sex organ malfunction, abnormal sperm function, drugs and certain illnesses.
Symptoms
There are generally no symptoms associated with male infertility. If there is a hormonal abnormality, men may notice a change in their voice, the growth of breasts or difficulty with sexual functioning.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A semen analysis is usually performed. If the semen analysis is abnormal, blood tests and imaging tests may be required to make the diagnosis.
Tests:
Ultrasound, Sperm analysis
Other Specific Tests: Testosterone level, sperm function testing, biopsy of the testicle.
Specialists:
Urology, Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A semen analysis is usually performed. If the semen analysis is abnormal, blood tests and imaging tests may be required to make the diagnosis.
Tests:
Ultrasound, Sperm analysis
Other Specific Tests: Testosterone level, sperm function testing, biopsy of the testicle.
Specialists:
Urology, Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology
Treatment
Treatment is directed at the cause of infertility. Treatment may include hormone therapy, surgery and treatment of infections. If there is no correctable cause of infertility, a reproductive specialist may be able to assist with reproduction techniques such as intrauterine fertilization or in vitro fertilization.