Treatment for Male Infertility in Delhi

There are several treatment options in case of male infertility:

Treatment of Low Sperm Count Through Hormonal Medications

Clomiphene citrate:

Clomiphene citrate can be used in male infertility treatment and to rectify causes of low sperm count. It helps to stimulate the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) that increases the testosterone levels and helps in increasing sperm production.

Aromatase inhibitors:

Aromatase inhibitors (Letrozole) are medications that block the conversion of testosterone to estrogen. They can be used in cases where high levels of estrogen are contributing to male infertility. By reducing these levels, aromatase inhibitors can help restore hormonal balance and improve sperm production.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH):

FSH is a hormone which is administered via injection and stimulates the testes to produce testosterone and improve sperm production.

In some cases, the pituitary gland fails to produce adequate levels of gonadotropins, leading to infertility. Gonadotropin therapy involves the use of medications such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to stimulate sperm production.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG):

HCG is a hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH). It is administered via injection and stimulates the testes to produce testosterone and improve sperm production.

Antibiotics

In cases where male infertility is caused by a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be prescribed depending on the specific infection to treat causes of low sperm count and improve fertility.

Vitamins and Antioxidants for treatment of low sperm count

Vitamin E:

Another potent antioxidant, vitamin E protects sperm cell membranes from oxidative damage. It has been found to improve sperm motility and enhance overall sperm quality.

Selenium:

This mineral acts as an antioxidant and is vital for sperm production. Selenium helps protect sperm from oxidative damage and supports sperm motility.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10):

CoQ10 is a powerful antioxidant that can improve sperm count, motility, and morphology. It also plays a crucial role in energy production within the sperm cells.

Lycopene:

Found in tomatoes and other red fruits, lycopene is an antioxidant that has been associated with improved sperm quality and motility.

Zinc:

Zinc is essential for sperm production and overall male reproductive health. It helps maintain proper testosterone levels and sperm quality.

Carnitine:

It is an amino acid derivative that plays a crucial role in energy metabolism by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they are utilised as a source of energy. It is naturally synthesised in the body and can also be obtained through dietary sources, particularly red meat and dairy products.

What are the causes of low sperm count?

Low sperm count can stem from various factors, and understanding these is crucial for effective treatment.

• Varicoceles –

This condition is characterised by swollen veins in the scrotum, hindering proper sperm development by disrupting blood flow and increasing testicular temperature.

• Immunologic infertility –

Here, the body produces antibodies due to infection, injury, or surgery, which then attack the sperm and hinder their normal function.

• Retrograde ejaculation –

This occurs when semen flows backwards into the bladder instead of exiting the penis, caused by malfunctioning bladder muscles and nerves during orgasm. Consequently, sperm fails to reach the vagina.

• Medications –

Certain drugs for mood disorders, digestive issues, cancer, and infections can negatively impact sperm production and function.

Lifestyle factors are also considered in the treatment of low sperm count. Habits like excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, and using certain medications for depression, arthritis, and high blood pressure can diminish sperm count and quality. Causes of low sperm count may also include chronic conditions such as kidney failure, hormonal imbalances, and childhood infections like mumps.

Structural problems in the reproductive system can likewise lower sperm count or halt sperm production. For instance, about 40% of men with azoospermia (complete absence of sperm) have an obstruction in the sperm transportation tubes, often due to birth defects or infections.

Other factors contributing to the condition include:

• Obesity or being overweight
• Age, particularly being over 40
• Exposure to radiation and environmental toxins like mercury, pesticides, and lead
• Excessive testicular heat exposure
• A history of undescended testicles

How is male infertility diagnosed?

At Advance Fertility, the treatment of low sperm count is tailored to its underlying cause. Our diagnostic approach includes:

• Medical history and physical examination –

Understanding any inherited conditions, current illnesses, surgeries, and injuries that could influence fertility is crucial. The doctor will also inquire about sexual development and habits.

• Semen analysis –

We analyse a semen sample in the lab to assess sperm count and check for abnormalities in movement and shape. This process often involves multiple tests for accuracy.

• Further tests might include scrotal or transrectal ultrasound, hormone testing, genetic testing, post-ejaculation urinalysis, specialised sperm function tests, and testicular biopsy to identify the precise cause of infertility.

How do I know if I suffer from male infertility?

The primary symptom of male infertility is the inability to conceive a child. If you and your partner have been trying to conceive for over a year without success, this may be an indicator of potential fertility issues.

Other indicators may include sexual dysfunction, recurrent respiratory infections, or testicular discomfort. Some men might observe reduced body or facial hair. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, particularly if they are new or have worsened over time, it’s important to consider them seriously.

Note that many symptoms of infertility only become apparent through testing. This can include a comprehensive semen analysis, which evaluates sperm count, motility, and morphology, or more specialised tests like hormonal profiles or genetic testing.

Consulting with our fertility specialists is advised. They can provide a detailed assessment and guide you through the appropriate diagnostic procedures to determine the underlying cause of infertility.

Treatment of Low Sperm Motility 

It refers to poor sperm movement or swimming ability and is a common cause of male infertility. Fortunately, several treatment options are available to address this issue and improve the chances of conception:

Dietary Changes:

Consuming a well-balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc, can support sperm health and improve motility.

Stress Management:

Chronic stress can negatively affect sperm motility. Implementing stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, or relaxation exercises may help.

Varicocele Repair:

If a varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum) is causing elevated testicular temperature and poor sperm motility, surgical repair of the varicocele can be considered.

IUI (Intrauterine Insemination):

Intrauterine insemination is a fertility treatment in which sperm is processed and concentrated before being directly inserted into the woman’s uterus, bypassing some of the obstacles sperm faces in reaching the egg.

IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation):

In cases of severe male factor infertility, where poor sperm motility is a significant issue, IVF may be recommended. IVF involves the fertilisation of the egg by sperm outside the body, and embryos with better motility can be selected for transfer into the uterus.

ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection):

In cases of extremely low sperm motility, ICSI can be employed during IVF. It involves the direct injection of a single, healthy sperm into an egg, increasing the likelihood of fertilisation.