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Combatting Male Infertility – What Are the Options?
Recent estimates show that male infertility contributes to approximately 30-50% of cases, and for those seeking a solution, understanding the options is critical. Thankfully, male fertility can be improved in some cases, and there is a range of treatments that can be utilised. In this article, we will discuss the concept of male infertility and the available treatments.
What Causes Male Infertility?
Male infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from hormonal imbalances to environmental exposures. In some men, the inability to achieve successful fertilisation is due to low sperm production or poor sperm quality. In other cases, there are causes that are more difficult to identify.
In order to assess the reasons behind male infertility, the first thing your healthcare provider will do is conduct a thorough physical examination. This will involve a series of tests to look for any underlying issues that could be causing the condition. In some cases, the cause might be clear, but if not, more tests may be needed to determine a diagnosis.
Which Treatments Can Help Combat Male Infertility?
Depending on the diagnosis, there are some treatments that can help to improve the quality of sperm or sperm concentration.
Hormonal Treatments. In some cases, hormonal imbalances may be the underlying cause of male infertility. For this, endocrinologists can administer medications to bolster hormones and improve the production of sperm.
Lifestyle Changes. Changing lifestyle behaviours, such as the use of drugs, alcohol and tobacco products, can help to reduce infertility. The CDC has found that alcohol particularly can cause issues with sperm production.
Vitamins and Supplements. Different vitamins and supplements may also help to combat male infertility. Vitamin E and Zinc have been known to boost sperm count and quality, while antioxidants have also shown promise.
Surgery. In some cases, surgery may be used to treat male infertility. This procedure is known as varicocelectomy and is used to repair damaged veins. The arteries can cause blood to pool, resulting in low sperm count and quality.
Intrauterine Insemination. This process involves inserting sperm into the uterus, where it can be more effective in achieving fertilisation. This technique is mostly used for couples whose infertility is due to male factors, as the sperm is better able to reach the egg.
In Vitro Fertilisation. As a final resort, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) may be used. This process involves fertilising an egg outside the body, then inserting it into the uterus. This approach can be expensive and can be difficult to access due to its limited availability in some states, but it can be effective in many cases.
Conclusion
Male infertility is a common issue and can be caused by a variety of factors. Luckily, there are some treatments available that can help to improve fertility and sperm quality. These range from hormonal treatments to lifestyle changes and surgery. In some cases, couples may opt for IVF as a last resort, though this may be expensive and difficult to access in some states.
For men who are struggling with infertility, it’s important to take time to understand and explore all the available treatment options. Consulting with a medical professional and exploring the research is key to finding the best solution for you and your partner.
