OVERVIEW

Infertility is the difficulty of becoming pregnant, which may be due to male or female issues and, in males, may be secondary to low sperm production, misshapen or immobile sperm, or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Illnesses, injuries, serious health problems, environmental causes or lifestyle choices can also play a role in causing this condition.

Symptoms

The main sign of male infertility is the inability to conceive, but there can be other less obvious symptoms. In some cases, a hormonal imbalance or a condition that blocks the passage of sperm may present symptoms. These could include:

Problems with sexual function, such as delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction or low sex drive
Pain, swelling or a lump in the testicle area
Decreased facial or body hair or other signs of a chromosomal or hormonal abnormality

It is important to tell your doctor if you have symptoms such as those described above. In some cases, these symptoms suggest male infertility, but they can also be signs of another health condition.

Diagnosis

There is rarely a definite cause of infertility. Since male infertility could be due to an underlying condition, your doctor may recommend several tests, including:

Physical examination and review of medical history
Semen analysis
Scrotal or transrectal ultrasound
Hormone testing
Post-ejaculation urinalysis
Genetic tests
Testicular biopsy
Sperm function tests

Treatment

There are a variety of ways to treat male infertility. Treatment usually depends on the cause, how long a man has been infertile, age and personal lifestyle. Possible options could include:

Surgery to correct any obstructions or make a repair
Treatments for infections
Treatments for sexual function problems
Hormone treatments and medications
Assisted reproductive technology, where sperm is taken directly from the testicle and injected into an egg

Sometimes male infertility cannot be treated. In these cases, it is important to discuss with your doctor other options for fathering a child.