Male infertility affects 10%-15% of men in the United States, and half of all infertility cases in couples trying to conceive a baby are due to male factors. Infertility and sexual dysfunction are common, but living through it can feel isolating and hopeless for many men. Know that you’re not alone, and there is help. The urological specialists at WMCHealth can provide a path to family planning and a healthy sex life. Here’s how you can take the first steps toward reclaiming control and finding hope.
What Is Male Infertility and Sexual Dysfunction?
Male infertility and sexual dysfunction can stem from many physiological issues, including:
- Erectile dysfunction (ED): ED is the inability to attain or maintain an erection.
- Ejaculatory dysfunction: Sometimes, there is an issue with an ejaculation properly leaving the body. This could be due to an absence of seminal emission, ejaculations that occur prematurely, or a problem of retrograde ejaculation (where semen enters the bladder instead of leaving the body).
- Decreased libido: a hormonal imbalance may cause sexual dysfunction and infertility.
- Low sperm count: A sperm count of fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen, or fewer than 39 million per ejaculate, is considered low. A low count can contribute to problems conceiving.
- Functional sperm: If the movement (motility) of your sperm is abnormal, the sperm may not be able to reach or penetrate the egg.
Symptoms of Male Infertility and Dysfunction
Symptoms of problems with sexual function in men can include:
- Erection or ejaculation problems
- Low sex drive
- Pain, discomfort, and lumps or swelling in the testicle area
If you have a history of testicular or prostate issues, you may be more likely to experience these symptoms. If you have any of these symptoms, consider seeing a specialist. Early diagnosis can significantly increase the likelihood of successful treatment, including helping you to have children.
Diagnosing Male Infertility and Dysfunction
To ensure a proper diagnosis, a doctor will check all parts of the reproduction pathway. A comprehensive assessment can help pinpoint the source of the issue and create the best chances for an effective treatment plan. After a general physical exam, a doctor may perform these tests to diagnose the issue:
- Semen analysis
- Scrotal ultrasound
- Transrectal ultrasound
- Hormone testing
- Post-ejaculation urinalysis
- Genetic tests
- Testicular biopsy
- Specialized sperm function tests
Innovative Treatments for Male Infertility and Sexual Dysfunction
As part of an academic medical center, the reproductive specialists and urologists at WMCHealth can provide some of the most innovative treatments available, such as microscopic varicocele surgery and penile prosthesis implants, designed to help men with fertility issues.
Sometimes, fertility issues can be addressed by making lifestyle changes. When those are not effective, doctors may recommend the following:
Hormone Replacement
If the cause of infertility is an imbalance in hormones, a course of medication can rebalance the hormones in the body.
Microscopic Varicocele Surgery
Swollen veins in the scrotum can cause male infertility. The purpose of the procedure is to seal off the affected vein and redirect blood flow to other healthy veins.
Penile Prosthesis Implants
A surgical option for some men with ED is an implanted inflatable or non-inflatable penile implant.