Dr. Onyejiaka will discuss male infertility today. Male infertility refers to a man’s inability to father a pregnancy in a fertile female partner. It can result from various factors, including low sperm production, abnormal sperm function, or issues with sperm delivery. Common causes encompass hormonal imbalances, testicular problems, genetic factors, certain medical conditions, and more.

Male infertility can be categorized into three main factors: pre-testicular, testicular, and post-testicular.

1. Pre-testicular factors: These relate to issues affecting hormone production or regulation, often stemming from the hypothalamus or pituitary gland. Conditions like hypogonadotropic hypogonadism can reduce hormone production necessary for sperm production.

2. Testicular factors: Problems within the testicles themselves impact sperm production, caused by genetic conditions, infections, trauma (e.g., hernia surgery), or environmental factors like radiation exposure or toxins.

3. Post-testicular factors: These factors interfere with the transport of sperm.

Common causes of male infertility include:

1. Abnormal semen production, leading to low sperm count or abnormal sperm shape and movement.
2. Hormonal imbalances like hypogonadism, resulting in insufficient testosterone production.
3. Genetic abnormalities such as Klinefelter’s syndrome or chromosomal defects.
4. Varicocele, which causes enlarged testicular veins, reducing sperm quality and motility.
5. Infections like gonorrhea or chlamydia, causing inflammation and damage to reproductive organs.
6. Ejaculation issues like retrograde ejaculation or premature ejaculation.
7. Blockages, such as varicoceles, congenital absence of the vas deferens, or vasectomy.
8. Erectile dysfunction, preventing the needed erection for sex.

Radiation from cell phones, carried close to the testes in pockets, is another potential cause of male infertility. Studies have explored its effects, including increased testicular temperature, electromagnetic radiation, radiofrequency waves, and indirect impacts on lifestyle choices.

Investigations for male infertility include medical history, physical exams, semen analysis, advanced tests like hormone evaluations and genetic testing, and imaging studies. Consultation with a medical professional at Suncel Hospital is recommended.

Suncel Diagnostic and Laboratory Center offers 90% of the mentioned investigations.

Treatment for male infertility varies based on the cause and may involve:

1. Diagnosis through medical history, physical exams, and semen analysis.
2. Lifestyle changes like a balanced diet, exercise, stress management, alcohol avoidance, smoking cessation, and weight management.
3. Medications to address hormonal imbalances.
4. Surgical interventions for structural issues.
5. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) like IUI, IVF, and ICSI.
6. Sperm retrieval techniques in severe cases.
7. Counseling and support to cope with emotional challenges.
8. Alternative medicine options.
9. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments as needed.

Consultation with a fertility specialist is crucial for tailored treatment plans based on specific diagnoses and needs.