Male infertility can be treated depending on the cause. With an accurate diagnosis, there are options to address hormonal issues, varicocele, infections, and other conditions through medications, surgeries, or assisted reproduction. See the details of these treatments below.
Male infertility can be an emotional and physical challenge for many men, but understanding its causes and treatments is the first step to overcoming it. Among the most common factors is varicocele, a condition that can impact sperm quality and make it harder to achieve the dream of starting a family.
Treatment options are available to address this condition and other causes of male infertility, depending on the medical diagnosis. In this article, you’ll discover available options, from medications to advanced assisted reproduction techniques, and how to prevent issues affecting reproductive health.
Most Recommended Male Infertility Treatments
There are various options for treating male infertility. The choice depends on the underlying cause.
The main options include fertility medications, hormone treatments, surgeries, and assisted reproduction. Learn more about these methods below:
Medications
Fertility medications are indicated for cases of low sperm count associated with hormonal deficiencies.
When infertility results from infections or inflammations such as prostatitis, urethritis, varicocele, epididymitis, and orchitis—which affect sperm quality—antibiotics may be prescribed to resolve the infection and improve sperm quality.
According to the article “The Influence of Antioxidants on Male Infertility,” low levels of zinc, omega-3, vitamin B12, vitamin C, coenzyme Q10, vitamin E, and selenium are associated with fertility issues. Although further studies are needed, normalizing these substances can help in fertility treatments.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy is used in male fertility treatment when men have low testosterone levels. This male hormone deficiency can cause oligozoospermia (low sperm count) and azoospermia (absence of sperm).
Low testosterone levels also lead to oxidative stress, increasing free radicals that damage cells, including sperm cells. Hormone replacement therapy includes gonadotropic hormones to regulate testosterone and sperm production.
Surgery
Surgery is recommended when male infertility is caused by varicocele or obstructions in the male reproductive system.
For varicocele, a microsurgery is typically performed to tie off damaged veins and redirect blood to healthy veins. This can help improve sperm test results and, in some cases, assist in treating male infertility.
Surgery to reverse obstructions is generally recommended for blockages in the epididymis, vas deferens, or urethra.
ICSI
Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is an assisted reproduction treatment that involves injecting a selected sperm directly into an egg. ICSI is indicated for:
- Retrograde ejaculation;
- Immune infertility, where the immune system produces antibodies against sperm;
- Men who underwent vasectomy, with sperm extracted from the testicles or epididymis;
- Low sperm quantity and mobility;
- High DNA fragmentation;
- Failed embryo implantation in previous procedures;
- Recurrent miscarriages.
Artificial Insemination
Artificial insemination is one of the available options for fertility treatment. Also known as intrauterine insemination, this technique involves implanting sperm into the uterus during the fertile period.
The woman receives follicle-stimulating hormone or luteinizing hormone for 9 to 10 days to stimulate ovulation.
Artificial insemination is indicated for:
- Women with ovulation issues;
- Cervical alterations;
- Some cases of endometriosis;
- Young couples with unexplained infertility;
- Men with sperm mobility issues identified in semen analysis.
IVF
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is recommended for men with low sperm quality. The process involves four steps:
- Ovarian stimulation: Done with injectable medications, lasting 9 to 12 days;
- Egg retrieval: Through transvaginal ultrasound;
- Blastocyst culture: Analysis to identify embryos with the best developmental potential.
Can Male Fertility Be Restored?
Male infertility can be treated, depending on the problem’s origin and proper medical guidance.
If a man cannot conceive naturally with his partner after 12 months of trying, he should consult a urologist for further examination and diagnosis.
How to Prevent Infertility Problems?
Healthy habits can help prevent issues affecting male fertility. Here’s how:
- Perform monthly self-exams on the testicles;
- Schedule annual check-ups;
- Eat foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants;
- Exercise regularly;
- Avoid excessive alcohol and smoking;
- Protect against sexually transmitted diseases;
- Avoid placing laptops on your lap to prevent testicular overheating.
Male infertility doesn’t have to be a definitive obstacle. With medical advances and healthy habits, there are ways to address many conditions affecting fertility.
Take care of your reproductive health: consult a specialist, follow preventive practices, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
For more tips and information, keep following the Dr. Paulo Egydio Blog, where male health is a priority.
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