Individualized Treatment
Male infertility can be caused by a number of problems: blockage of the vas deferens (following vasectomy), abnormal hormones, varicocele (varicose veins of the testicle), testicular exposures, abnormal ejaculation, or abnormal erectile function. Our evaluation includes a detailed history, physical exam, and semen analysis. Further testing may include endocrine labs (blood drawn), an ultrasound, or genetic testing. Depending on the cause of male infertility, we treat patients with a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and sometimes surgery. Our goal is to do everything we can to maximize a couple’s ability to achieve a pregnancy.
Chromosomal Abnormalities
Y chromosome deletions are found in approximately 5% to 20% of males with a very low sperm count. These deletions appear to impair normal sperm development. While these deletions do not necessarily cause any genetic disease, it appears to decrease the chance of men with a low sperm count to successfully fertilize eggs. Couples with infertility due to male factor should consider chromosome analysis on the male reproductive partner’s sperm prior to IVF.
Your Most Asked Questions
FAQs
Male Infertility FAQs
About 1 in 7 couples have difficulty getting pregnant (ie, trying for 12 months without success). Of these couples, 50-60% will have a cause that is related to the male partner. Male factors include abnormalities in semen analysis, little or no sperm, issues with erections or ejaculation, hormonal issues, varicoceles, and blockage of the vas deferens from a prior vasectomy.
The standard test to check for male fertility is the semen analysis. A variety of parameters are assessed including concentration (number of sperm), motility, and morphology (shape). Preferably this would be done at a fertility center such as SRM to ensure reliable, standardized results and a better patient experience. At SRM, you will have a quick follow-up phone consultation to go over your test results a few days after your appointment.
Yes. There are many things we can do to improve sperm counts including: lifestyle changes, medications for erections or ejaculation, hormonal medications, and sometimes surgery.
A few examples of lifestyle changes are to exercise regularly, at least 30 minutes 5 days per week if possible; decrease stress, eat a healthy and balanced diet, lose weight (if needed), avoid substances and activities known to have a negative impact on male fertility, like tobacco and marijuana use, certain medications, regular use of hot tubs; avoid medications or supplements that contain testosterone or its precursors (DHEA).
A few reasons would be if you need a semen analysis, if you had an abnormal semen analysis, if you have a varicocele, if you have a history of or are currently using testosterone, or if you are concerned about your fertility.
Call SRM at 877.777.6002 to schedule an appointment at any of our five locations
Meet SRM’s Male Fertility Specialists
Providers
SRM is the only infertility center with two fellowship trained urologists, and one fellowship trained endocrinologist, seeing patients in the Seattle and Eastside area.
Jeremy Choy, MD
ENDOCRINOLOGIST
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Marah C. Hefemann, MD
UROLOGIST
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Kevin Ostrowski, MD
UROLOGIST
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Tom Walsh, MD
UROLOGIST
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