Testing will rule out or reveal a plan to treat male infertility
For couples who are having problems conceiving, approximately 40% of the time the etiology is related to male infertility. In another 20% of cases a combination of both male and female factors are responsible.
These statistics might sound discouraging initially, and could be particularly intimidating for men, but the good news is these numbers aren’t necessarily an accurate indication of the possibility to conceive.
It is, however, possible to achieve pregnancy even considering these numbers. For that reason, the physicians at our Nashville and Murfreesboro fertility centers are dedicated to analyzing the male partner in an evaluation that includes a medical history review and semen analysis. Results ideally provide promising approaches that could realistically lead to starting a family.
Understanding male infertility
When a couple is approaching possible challenges with fertility, a clear understanding of how a man’s reproductive system works is important.
Sperm are made in a man’s testes and pass through the epididymis, which nourishes and houses the sperm as they develop. The sperm travel through the vas deferens to the urethra where they are ejaculated through the penis.
The average man has about 70 million sperm in his ejaculate; a concentration of less than 15 million may impair fertility.
Just before a man ejaculates, sperm mixes with fluid from the prostate gland to create semen. This is enhanced by a sugary substance from the seminal vesicles to provide fuel to the sperm as they embark on their long journey, swimming through a woman’s cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes to reach the egg.
If a man’s sperm concentration is undesirably low, some lifestyle changes can be recommended to increase the possibility of conception. It is important to keep in mind, though, that the entire sperm production process takes roughly three months, so fertility does not improve overnight.
Testing leads to targeted treatment
We ideally see both partners in initial consultations so that we may rule out possible male factor infertility. Our in-house andrologists will provide a comprehensive report detailing sperm health; blood work will confirm hormonal balance.
Should you require further testing for physical obstructions that are interfering with sperm production, our Nashville and Murfreesboro fertility specialists may refer you to a urologist.
It can be empowering to embrace and nurture this process, knowing that bodies will respond at their natural pace. That’s the goal behind our testing and treatment plans, which may include Clomid to increase sperm production, IUI or IVF. Contact us to arrange for a consultation.
