5 Things that May Be Causing Male Infertility

In about one-third of infertility cases, the underlying issue originates in men and stems from either health or environmental conditions.

At Urology Specialists Group, our skilled urology team specializes in diagnostic testing to identify the cause of male infertility. They also offer personalized treatment plans to improve your ability to conceive a child with your female partner.

An overview of male infertility

For conception to occur, sperm must travel to the egg for fertilization. Any disruption in the process of sperm leaving the testicles or with the overall health of the sperm can lead to infertility.

Some men may not produce enough sperm, which decreases the likelihood of fertilization. In other cases, sperm may be dysfunctional and unable to move toward the female egg.

Depending on the root cause of male infertility, our specialists work closely with you to treat it. We use advanced therapies and perform surgery when needed to support your ability to conceive a child.

5 potential causes of male infertility

There are five common causes of male infertility that our Urology Specialist Group physicians diagnose and treat, including:

1.Erectile dysfunction (ED)

ED is an inability to maintain an erection firm enough for sex. If you have issues having intercourse because of ED, achieving a pregnancy can be difficult.

Some underlying causes of ED, such as smoking, obesity, and alcohol or drug use, can also contribute to infertility.

2. Infections

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and other types of infections can affect your fertility, especially if they go untreated for a while. Infections can trigger inflammation in the structures of the penis and interfere with sperm leaving the testicles.

Untreated or severe infections can also cause scar tissue that blocks sperm from leaving the testicles or penis.

3. Hormone imbalance

When there’s an imbalance in your testosterone or other reproductive hormone levels, it can lead to sexual dysfunction and decreased sperm production.

4.  Varicocele

Varicoceles are enlarged veins that develop in the testicles. The swollen veins can lower sperm quality and volume, making conception more difficult.

5. Anti-sperm antibodies

Your immune system produces antibodies to fight against germs and other foreign materials. In some men, these anti-sperm antibodies can mistakenly recognize sperm as a threat and attack them. The attack reduces the amount of sperm you have to fertilize a female egg.

Treating the causes of male infertility

At Urology Specialist Group, our experienced medical providers offer advanced treatment options that target the root cause of your infertility. Your treatment plan may include:

Medications

If you have STDs or other types of infection, you may need prescription antibiotics to clear it. We also offer medications to treat ED.

Hormone therapy

Men with low testosterone or other hormone imbalances may be candidates for hormone replacement therapy. By supplementing your natural hormones with synthetic hormones, you can restore your fertility and sexual function.

Surgery

Surgery may be necessary if you have blockages in your reproductive tract. Our surgeons can remove excess scar tissue or repair abnormalities in the tract that prevent sperm from traveling to the egg.

Call the Urology Specialist Group office in Miami Lakes, Hialeah, or Miami, Florida, to schedule an infertility consultation or book an appointment online today.