Male infertility is quite common — the man is a contributing factor in around half of all infertility cases, either alone or alongside a female factor. About 1 in 20 men have low sperm counts affecting fertility.
Male Infertility Treatment in Pune
Dr. Rajesh Dhake > Male Infertility Treatment
What Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility refers to the inability of a man to make a fertile female partner pregnant, usually due to deficiencies in semen quantity or quality. It’s a widespread issue — for about 20% of infertile couples, the problem lies with the male partner alone, and for another 30%, both partners contribute. In total, the man plays a role in roughly half of all infertility cases.
Fertility generally comes down to the quantity and quality of sperm. If sperm count is low or the sperm produced doesn’t function properly, conceiving can become difficult or, in some cases, impossible. About 1 in 20 men have low sperm counts affecting fertility, while only about 1 in 100 men have no sperm at all in their ejaculate.
Why Male Infertility Happens
- Low sperm count (oligospermia) — the most common factor, where semen contains fewer sperm than normal, often linked to hormonal imbalances, genetics, or lifestyle habits like excessive alcohol and smoking
- Poor sperm motility — sperm that can’t move efficiently enough to reach the egg, even when the count itself is normal, caused by hormonal imbalances or structural issues
- Abnormal sperm morphology — irregularities in sperm size and shape that hinder fertilization, influenced by genetics, infections, or environmental toxin exposure
- Varicocele — swelling of the veins draining the testicle, a common and treatable cause where increased blood flow and heat impact sperm production
- Sperm transport problems — blockages in the tubes carrying sperm from the testes, affecting roughly 1 in 5 infertile men, including those seeking reversal after a prior vasectomy
- Hormonal deficiencies — low levels of hormones produced by the pituitary gland, a less common but identifiable cause
Signs That May Point to Male Infertility
- Difficulty conceiving after a year or more of trying
- A known history of varicocele or testicular swelling
- Changes in sexual desire or difficulty with sexual function
- Pain, swelling, or a lump in the testicular area
- A prior vasectomy with a wish to have children again
- No obvious symptoms at all in many cases — infertility itself is often the first sign
Why Proper Diagnosis Matters
- Confirms whether the cause lies in sperm production, sperm transport, or another factor
- Identifies treatable causes like varicocele, which can often be corrected
- Guides couples toward the right combination of treatment or assisted reproduction options
- Avoids unnecessary or ineffective treatment by targeting the actual underlying cause
How Male Infertility Is Diagnosed
- Semen analysis — checks sperm count, motility, and morphology, usually the first test performed
- Hormone testing — measures levels of hormones involved in sperm production
- Physical examination — checks for varicocele or other structural abnormalities
- Genetic testing — used in select cases where a genetic cause is suspected
- Imaging — ultrasound may be used to detect blockages or structural issues in the reproductive tract
How Male Infertility Is Treated
- Lifestyle changes — reducing alcohol and smoking, and improving overall health, can meaningfully improve sperm quality
- Medication — used to correct hormonal imbalances affecting sperm production
- Varicocele repair — a surgical procedure to correct the swollen veins, often improving sperm parameters afterward
- Surgical correction of blockages — addresses physical obstructions preventing sperm transport
- Assisted reproductive techniques — considered in cases where natural conception remains difficult despite treatment
When to See a Urologist
- Difficulty conceiving after 12 months of trying, or 6 months if the female partner is over 35
- A known or suspected varicocele
- Pain, swelling, or changes noticed in the testicles
- A desire to have children after a previous vasectomy
- Any concerns about sexual or reproductive health worth discussing
Male infertility evaluation and treatment is available across Wakad, Baner, and Pimple Saudagar, open all days except Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common is male infertility?
What is the most common cause of male infertility?
Low sperm count (oligospermia) is the most frequently identified cause, though poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm shape, and varicocele are also common contributing factors.
Can male infertility be treated?
Yes, many causes are treatable. Varicocele can often be corrected surgically, hormonal imbalances can be managed with medication, and lifestyle changes can meaningfully improve sperm quality in many cases.
What tests are used to diagnose male infertility?
Semen analysis is typically the first step, checking sperm count, motility, and shape. Additional tests may include hormone testing, a physical exam for varicocele, and imaging or genetic testing depending on the findings.
When should a couple see a urologist for infertility concerns?
Generally after 12 months of trying to conceive without success, or after 6 months if the female partner is over 35. Earlier evaluation is worthwhile if there’s a known risk factor like varicocele or a prior vasectomy.
Does age affect male fertility?
Male fertility can gradually decline with age. Changes in sperm count, motility, and quality may occur, although many men can remain fertile at older ages.
Can lifestyle changes improve male fertility?
Yes. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep may support healthy sperm production.
What is a varicocele, and can it cause infertility?
A varicocele is an enlargement of veins around the testicle. In some men, it can affect sperm production and quality and may contribute to infertility.
Can low sperm count be treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include medication, surgery, lifestyle changes, or assisted reproductive techniques.
How long does it take for sperm quality to improve after treatment?
Sperm production takes several weeks, so improvements may take a few months after treatment or lifestyle changes. Follow-up semen analysis may be recommended to assess progress.
