When it comes to fertility struggles, many assume that the issue lies with the woman. However, male infertility is a significant factor in up to 40-50% of all infertility cases. Despite this, male infertility remains a topic that’s not often discussed, leaving many men unaware of the challenges they face and the treatment options available.
In Singapore, male infertility treatments have evolved, with a wide range of diagnostic tools and treatment methods now accessible. In this article, we’ll explore:
- The causes of male infertility and how they can affect your fertility
- Common diagnostic tests used in Singapore to assess male fertility.
- The most effective treatment options available to men experiencing infertility
Let’s explore the reasons behind male infertility and the treatments that can help improve fertility outcomes.
Understanding Male Infertility: Common Causes
Male infertility can result from various factors, some of which may be genetic, environmental, or lifestyle-related. Identifying the underlying cause of infertility is crucial in determining the appropriate treatment.
1. Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)
One of the most common causes of male infertility is a low sperm count. This can be diagnosed through a semen analysis, which measures the number of sperm in a sample.
- Causes of low sperm count:
- Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
- Hormonal imbalances (e.g., low testosterone)
- Genetic conditions (e.g., Klinefelter syndrome)
- Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress)
2. Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenozoospermia)
Even if a man produces a normal number of sperm, if they’re unable to swim or move effectively, fertilization can be compromised. This is known as poor sperm motility and is often diagnosed through a semen analysis.
- Causes of poor sperm motility:
- Environmental toxins: Exposure to chemicals, heat, or radiation
- Varicocele: A common condition that causes veins to become enlarged and impacts sperm production
- Genetic disorders: Such as Kartagener syndrome
3. Abnormal Sperm Shape (Teratozoospermia)
Abnormal sperm shape can reduce the likelihood of sperm successfully fertilizing an egg. This is another aspect checked during semen analysis.
- Causes of abnormal sperm shape:
- Genetic factors
- Exposure to environmental toxins
- Hormonal imbalances
4. Blocked or Damaged Sperm Ducts (Obstructive Azoospermia)
In some cases, the sperm ducts may be blocked or damaged, preventing sperm from ejaculating. This could be due to infections, surgeries, or congenital conditions.
- Causes of obstructive azoospermia:
- Blockages in the vas deferens (the tube that carries sperm)
- Infections: Such as epididymitis or sexually transmitted infections
- Surgical trauma: Scarring from previous surgeries like hernia repair
5. Hormonal Imbalances
A man’s hormonal profile plays a critical role in sperm production. Low testosterone or imbalances in other hormones, such as FSH and LH, can significantly affect sperm count and motility.
- Causes of hormonal imbalances:
- Pituitary disorders
- Testicular failure
- Excessive use of steroids or other medications
Diagnostic Tests for Male Infertility in Singapore
If you’re struggling with infertility, the first step is to seek a fertility specialist who can conduct a series of tests to diagnose the cause of the issue. In Singapore, common tests for male fertility include:
1. Semen Analysis (Sperm Count Test)
A semen analysis is the most common test for male infertility. It measures the quantity, quality, and motility of sperm. The test is conducted in a laboratory, where a sperm sample is evaluated under a microscope.
What it measures:
- Sperm count
- Sperm motility
- Sperm morphology (shape)
- Semen volume and pH levels
2. Hormone Tests
Hormonal testing is used to check levels of testosterone, FSH, and LH, which are essential for sperm production. This test helps determine if any hormonal imbalances are contributing to infertility.
3. Genetic Testing
If there are abnormal results in the semen analysis, your fertility specialist may recommend genetic testing to check for chromosomal abnormalities, such as Klinefelter syndrome, which can lead to infertility.
4. Scrotal Ultrasound
A scrotal ultrasound is used to detect physical abnormalities, such as varicoceles (enlarged veins), which can impact sperm production.
5. Testicular Biopsy
In cases of severe male infertility (e.g., azoospermia), a testicular biopsy may be performed to check for sperm production within the testicles. This can help identify whether sperm retrieval for procedures like ICSI is possible.
Treatment Options for Male Infertility
1. Medications and Hormonal Treatments
If hormonal imbalances are the cause of infertility, medications such as Clomid or hCG may be prescribed to stimulate sperm production. Additionally, thyroid medication or dopamine agonists may be used to balance hormone levels.
2. Surgery for Varicocele
A varicocele is a common cause of male infertility. It’s an enlargement of veins within the scrotum that can increase the temperature of the testes and impair sperm production. Surgery is often used to correct varicocele and improve fertility.
3. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)
- IUI (Intrauterine Insemination): For men with low sperm count or motility, IUI may be an option. This procedure places concentrated sperm directly into the uterus around the time of ovulation.
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilization): IVF is used for men with more severe sperm issues. It involves fertilizing an egg outside the body, and a healthy embryo is implanted into the woman’s uterus.
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection): For men with severe male factor infertility, ICSI allows a single sperm to be injected directly into an egg to facilitate fertilization.
4. Sperm Retrieval Procedures
For men with azoospermia (absence of sperm in the ejaculate), sperm can sometimes be retrieved directly from the testicles or epididymis using procedures like TESA (Testicular Sperm Aspiration) or PESA (Percutaneous Epididymal Sperm Aspiration).
Final Thoughts
Male infertility is a complex issue with a variety of potential causes. However, modern medical advances have opened up a wide range of diagnostic tests and treatment options to help men facing infertility challenges.
If you’re experiencing difficulties in conceiving, it’s crucial to seek professional help early. Consulting with a fertility specialist can help pinpoint the cause of infertility and determine the best course of action to improve your chances of conception.
Sources:
Anna Haotanto is the Founder of Zora Health and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Anna’s personal experiences with egg-freezing, PCOS, perimenopause and the challenges of fertility have fueled her mission to provide high-quality information, financing, and support to help women and couples navigate their fertility journeys with confidence. She is also recognised for her achievements in finance, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment, and has been featured in various media outlets. You can also follow her on Linkedin or Instagram.
