Male Factor Infertility: Causes, Tests & Treatments

Up to 50% of infertility stems from male factors. A semen analysis evaluates sperm volume, count, motility, and morphology to identify issues. Treatments like IUI and IVF with ICSI offer success rates exceeding 53% for severe cases.

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Key Takeaways

Semen Analysis: Key Test for Male Infertility Diagnosis

A semen analysis using WHO standards assesses volume (minimum 1.5mL), sperm count (>20 million/mL), motility (>40% moving), and morphology (>4% normal shape). These metrics help pinpoint reproductive system issues like blockages or hormonal imbalances.

IUI vs IVF/ICSI: Treatment Options by Severity

For mild cases, intrauterine insemination (IUI) costs $300–$1,000 and succeeds in 10–20% of cycles. Severe cases require IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), which achieves 53% live birth rates by injecting a single sperm directly into the egg.

Surgical Sperm Retrieval for No-Ejaculate Sperm

Procedures like PESA/TESE extract sperm directly from testicles when ejaculate contains no sperm. These minimally invasive surgeries under local anesthesia enable IVF with ICSI for men with obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia.

Donor Sperm: 20% of IUI Cycles Use Certified Banks

FDA-regulated sperm banks like Xytex Cryo and California Cryobank screen for HIV, hepatitis, and genetic disorders. Donor sperm is used in 20% of IUI treatments, particularly for same-sex couples or when male partners have no viable sperm.

Environmental & Lifestyle Factors Impact Sperm Health

Exposure to toxins, heat (e.g., hot tubs), and medications like anabolic steroids can reduce sperm count and motility. Men are advised to avoid these risk factors and maintain a healthy weight, as obesity correlates with lower testosterone levels.

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