Male Infertility - Is Not a Diagnosis
Today, reproductive health problems have become more urgent. Environmental insults, tension, constant stress, and disregard for health—all these factors contribute to significant demographic challenges. According to statistics, every sixth couple worldwide that wants to have a baby cannot fulfill this dream due to medical reasons.
More than half of these cases are due to male infertility. For many, this is a surprising discovery since it is generally assumed that all problems related to having a child are the woman's responsibility. In reality, men's health is often the stumbling block to creating a complete family.
It should be said that no specialist can fully define the concept of "male infertility." On the most superficial level, the causes of an inability to conceive a child can number around sixteen. However, all of them can be divided into three main groups. Fertility problems may be related to the number of sperm, their mobility, or their movement through the seminiferous pathways. Accurate determination of the cause of the dysfunction is crucial because treatment depends on it. In some cases, hormone therapy may suffice, while in others (for example, if there are obstructions in the deferent pathways), surgery may be necessary. In any case, there is reason for optimism, as medicine has not yet declared any form of male infertility as incurable. Of course, the circumstances vary from patient to patient, but in general, a positive outcome is possible—even in the most serious cases.
How is the diagnosis of infertility made?
First of all, a mandatory blood test is performed to determine if an infection is the cause of infertility. The second procedure is a semen analysis. While giving a semen sample may feel uncomfortable for some men, the process is quite simple. To get the most accurate results, certain conditions must be followed. For three days before the analysis, the man should abstain from sexual intercourse and avoid sweet, salty, and fatty foods. The sample should be delivered to the laboratory within half an hour of collection, and it’s essential to maintain a temperature similar to the human body. Physicians typically advise keeping the tube under the arm. In some cases, an ultrasound of the genitals may be recommended, especially if the blood and semen analysis reveal no abnormalities.
Treatment and Support
Treatment for infertility is strictly individualized. Today, several medications are available that can quickly resolve issues for men. However, the most important factor in this matter is not just physical health but psychological well-being. For many men, the news of infertility is a major blow to self-esteem. A woman’s task is to support her partner and convince him that early treatment can restore all the body's important functions.