The Different Methods of Male Infertility Treatment

There are many different methods of male infertility treatment. The best treatment for the individual will depend on the reason for infertility. There are various tests available to determine the cause of infertility.

Electroejaculation Therapy

Electroejaculation therapy is a procedure used to produce an ejaculation when a male is unable to because of a neurological dysfunction. Electroejaculation is a 30 minute procedure done under local anesthesia. An electrical probe is inserted into the rectum. The probe produces an electrical current, which evokes ejaculation. The sperm is then gathered and used for implantation into the woman. This treatment works for men who have spinal cord injuries.

Testosterone Replacement

Many men can develop low levels of testosterone. This is caused by the brain not signaling for the pituitary gland to release the hormone. There are medications if the male has low testosterone levels. The testosterone levels can be tested very easily by a blood test. Low testosterone levels can be due to the use of steroids. Many athletes will use steroids during their athletic career.

Clomiphene Citrate

Clomiphene citrate, also called Clomid, is a pill which is usually used to help a woman produce more eggs during ovulation. In men, it can help stimulate the pituitary gland to produce more semen. This can treat men with a low sperm count.

Sperm Retrieval

In some cases, the sperm may need to be collected by making an incision in the scrotum. This procedure is called epididymal sperm aspiration. This procedure is used if there is a blockage in the vas deferens. The blockage can be caused by vasectomy reversal failure or azoospermia. Azoospermia is when the body does not produce enough sperm.

Sperm Washing

In sperm washing, the sperm are isolated and only the healthiest sperm are prepared for insemination. The sperm are put into a container with a washing substance and then placed in a machine where they are spun or centrifuged. This process separates the sperm from fatty acids and white blood cells. This increases the chances of conceiving a child.

Varicocelectomy

Varicoceles can cause infertility. A varicocele is an enlargement in the vein that is in the scrotum draining to the testes. Since a varicocele can cause an obstruction and not allow the sperm through, it may need to be removed. A varicocelectomy is a fairly easy procedure. A small incision is made just above the penis, and the varicocele is removed. This can help to achieve a pregnancy by up to 45%.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy can help with infertility in men who have abnormal hormone levels. The thyroid gland can be the cause of some problems. If this is the case, the patient may need to have thyroid medications. This is a rare problem.

There are many reasons that a male may experience infertility. There are treatments available for most of these problems. Talk to your doctor if you believe that you are experiencing infertility problems; they can help set you set up the right treatment.

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