Infertility—the word many people dread to hear, especially those who desire to settle down and start a family. In the United States, one-third of infertility cases are attributed to male reproductive health issues, such as low sperm count or mobility, small testicles, scrotal swelling, prostate problems, to name a few.
If you’ve been trying to get your partner pregnant for over a year now but without success, don’t give in to despair. Consider asking your primary care physician for a referral to see a urological surgeon, particularly one who specializes in male reproductive health.
Read on to learn about the specific steps a urological surgeon may take to address male infertility.
Diagnosing Male Infertility
To confirm a diagnosis and pinpoint the underlying cause, a urological surgeon will carry out a thorough assessment, which likely consists of a physical examination of your genitals, a review of your medical history, and any or some of the following fertility tests:
- Semen analysis – to check sperm count and quality
- Blood tests – to assess hormone levels.
- Testicular biopsy – to check for lumps and help determine the cause of infertility, when a semen analysis indicates an abnormality in your semen count or quality
- Medical imaging – to determine potential abnormalities in your reproductive system and signs of defect in the tubules that transport sperm
Based on their findings, a urological surgeon will determine the appropriate treatment option for you.
Treating Male Infertility
Treatment for male infertility due to overall health problems involves treating the condition itself. For instance, diabetes, which can cause hormonal disruptions, warrants proper blood sugar management through medication adherence and making the necessary lifestyle and dietary changes.
If male infertility is caused by a sexual problem or lack of healthy sperm, a urological surgeon may recommend any or a combination of the following approaches.
- Medications to boost testicular function- (i.e., improve sperm count and consequently chances for achieving a successful pregnancy)
- Changing lifestyle factors – (e.g., smoking cessation, avoiding or limiting alcohol intake, engaging in regular physical activity, discontinuing certain medications, and changing the frequency and timing of sexual intercourse)
- Sperm retrieval – This is carried out when a urological surgeon deems assisted reproductive technique is necessary. Assisted reproductive technology (ART) involves removing eggs from your partner’s body using a needle guided through her vagina and then mixing the eggs with your sperm to initiate fertilization.
- Surgical intervention– to reverse sperm blockage caused by a reproductive disorder or structural issue
Urological Surgeon in Phoenix, AZ
At Ironwood Urology, board-certified urological surgeon Dr. Desiderio Avila, Jr. has become a part of thousands of success stories of men in Phoenix and beyond wanting to conquer their infertility and start happy family lives.
Be among Dr. Avila’s most satisfied patients. call us at (480) 961-2323 or request an appointment right here on our website to arrange your visit.
