The decision to have children is a very important one for most people. If you and your partner have been trying to conceive but have had no luck, you should be aware that infertility may be playing a role. Infertility is the inability to reproduce or have children. About half of infertility cases are due to the male partner, meaning he is unable to produce healthy sperm needed to fertilize an egg.
There are several causes of male infertility. It could be due to health conditions that affect the quality of sperm produced, such as malnutrition, kidney disorders, or cirrhosis. If you and your partner have been trying to have a baby and are worried that you may be infertile, pay attention to these signs.
Testicle Pain and Swelling
Pain and swelling in the testicles may be caused by an infection (possibly a sexually transmitted disease) that causes fever, blood in urine, and abnormal discharge, which are often the result of an inflamed epididymis. An infection can cause scarring and interfere with healthy sperm production.
Low Libido or Sex Drive
Lack of interest in sex is often due to hormonal issues, such as low levels of testosterone. It also causes sperm production to drop. Plus, testosterone levels can also affect your ability to have sex.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is the inability to get or maintain an erection strong enough for intercourse. There are many causes of erectile dysfunction, including being overweight, physically inactive, or dealing with a lot of stress. The risk of developing this condition increases with age. Most men with erectile dysfunction can get treated and improve fertility with the help of a urologist.
Low Sperm Production
Men who have inadequate or weak sperm production often face fertility problems. In many cases, these issues can be addressed by a urologist through a variety of treatments ranging from conservative to surgery.
Testicular Abnormalities
Infertility may also be due to an abnormality of the testicles. If they are smaller than usual or hard, it could be a sign of constriction due to varicoceles, which are enlarged veins in your scrotum.
If you experience any of these symptoms or if you’ve tried to conceive for more than a year but not succeeded, see a urologist for testing. Many causes of infertility are treatable.
Male Infertility Treatment in Phoenix, Arizona
Finding out the cause is the first step to treating male infertility. A urologist can evaluate your condition through a variety of tests and a physical examination to determine the cause.
Male infertility is a very delicate issue, and it may be difficult to accept it. However, the sooner you seek the help of a urologist, the closer you are to receiving treatment for your condition. Today, there are many options available for couples unable to conceive naturally.
At Ironwood Urology, we offer a variety of treatments for male infertility. Dr. Desiderio Avila is a board-certified urologist specializing in men’s health issues.
You may reach us at (480) 961-2323 to schedule a consultation or you can submit an appointment request online.
