Male Infertility

When you and your partner are having trouble conceiving, it can be frustrating and disappointing. But with today's medical technology, doctors can find the cause of most couples' infertility. Treatment is often successful, whether the problem is in the man's reproductive system, the woman's, or both.

Do You Have A Fertility Problem?

In general, if you and your partner have been trying to conceive for a year without success, you have a fertility problem. But if the woman is over 35 or has irregular menstruation, you might not want to wait an entire year. If the woman has been on birth control pills, add a few months to the year for her cycle to reestablish itself. Causes for infertility include low sperm count, age, exposure to chemicals, and past diseases. See a doctor who specializes in fertility problems. Since analyzing sperm is simple, the doctor will probably do that first. If you have enough normal sperm, both partners should be tested further. For many couples, infertility is due to a combination of factors involving both the man and the woman.

Evaluating Male Fertility

Your doctor will ask you about your medical and sexual history, and will perform a physical exam. Then he'll analyze your sperm, which you've ejaculated into a container either at home or in the doctor's office. The number of sperm, their motility, (ability to swim), and their shape all affect conception. He may do other tests which can establish whether you are producing enough strong swimming sperm to impregnate your partners egg.

Treating Male Infertility

There are a number of treatments for male infertility. For some men, the solution is as simple as a change in sexual technique. Others need to cool the scrotum by avoiding hot baths or wearing boxer shorts. Hormone injections cure some problems. A minor operation for a varicocele (an enlarged vein in the scrotum) often increases sperm counts and motility. If you are producing healthy sperm but clogged ducts prevent them from ejaculating, your ducts can be opened surgically.

Other Possibilities For Having A Child

There are other possibilities for couples who want children. Hormones and surgery can treat either partner. Artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization may be good options. Some couples decide to adopt or not to have children. Ask your doctor for advice and information. Then sit down with your partner and evaluate your options. Make a choice you can both live with; it's an important, personal matter only the two of you can decide.

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