Infertility is caused by a problem in the male, for example, the inability to ejaculate or an insufficient number of sperm. Infertility is not just a disease that affects women—men suffer as well. New studies show that in approximately 40 percent of infertility couples, the male partner is either the sole cause or a contributing cause of infertility.
While most fertility diagnostic tests are performed on female patients, there are a few studies that are needed to determine if there is male factor infertility. There are multiple factors to male fertility. We start with a simple semen analysis (SA). If the results are abnormal, additional testing, such as genetic and hormonal lab work and repeat semen analysis, may be ordered to identify the problem.
A referral to a local urologist for further evaluation, and/or treatment for male infertility may be necessary.
Though not directly related to your fertility, infectious disease labs allow us to guide you on a safe and healthy journey to parenthood.
You will also be offered Genetic Screening. This information allows you to find out the chances of having a child with a genetic disorder.
Semen is the fluid that is released when a man has an orgasm. Semen carries the sperm in fluids that should nourish and protect it. You will typically be asked to provide a semen sample by masturbating into a sterile container. If masturbation is not culturally acceptable, we can provide you with a special condom in which to collect semen during intercourse.
The semen analysis provides a lot of information about the quantity and quality of both semen and the sperm it contains. Some of the things that are measured are:
- How much semen a man produces (volume)
- The total number of sperm in the semen sample (total count)
- The number of sperm in each milliliter of semen (concentration)
- The percentage of sperm that are moving (motility)
- If the sperm are the right shape or not (morphology)
The analysis can also suggest if you have an infection in your reproductive system.
Specialized fertility supplements are available to enhance sperm production, motility and function.
Our preferred supplement is Conception XR. As there are two different formulas, a suggestion can best be made after your initial semen analysis. They available for purchase, without a prescription, at www.theralogix.com. Please use PRC code: 800518, for discount at checkout.
A TESA, or Testicular Epididymal Sperm Aspiration, is an in-office procedure performed on men who: have a history of a vasectomy, cannot ejaculate, or have an absence of sperm in their ejaculation; to gather sperm to inseminate their partner’s eggs.
The male reproductive system includes the scrotum, testes, spermatic ducts, sex glands, and penis. These organs work together to produce sperm, the male gamete, and the other components of semen. These organs also work together to deliver semen out of the body and into the vagina where it can fertilize egg cells to produce offspring.
As reproduction involves cooperation of several important body systems, at DIRM, we take a whole body approach to treatment. From anatomy and hormones to nutrition and mental health.
DIRM is truly a place where dreams, through science, become reality.