The Andrology Valencia clinic is dedicated to thoroughly studying your male infertility problem. We will provide you with an accurate diagnosis and different alternatives to improve your chances of fatherhood, with the aim of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Male infertility: causes, diagnosis, and treatments
What is male infertility?
Male infertility is defined as the inability of a man to conceive a child after 12 months or more of unprotected sexual intercourse. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), infertility is a disease of the reproductive system. In Spain, we distinguish between sterility (inability to conceive) and infertility (inability to carry a pregnancy to term, despite having achieved pregnancy).
The probability of pregnancy in healthy women under the age of 37 is approximately 25% in the first month, 50% at 3 months, 85% at one year and 90% at two years. Infertility affects 15% of couples, with the male factor being responsible in 50% of cases (30% due to exclusively male causes and 20% due to mixed causes).
It is essential to evaluate the male factor, which is often underdiagnosed and undertreated. By doing so, we can improve fertility rates, reduce costs by avoiding unnecessary assisted reproduction treatments, and increase the chances of conceiving naturally.
Common causes of male infertility
There are several reasons why a man might have difficulty conceiving, some of which may be treatable. The most common causes are listed below:
Idiopathic (unknown):
It is not always possible to identify a clear cause, even with all the tests performed.
Immunological causes:
The immune system can produce antibodies that attack sperm, hindering fertilisation.
Hypogonadism (hormone deficiency):
When the testicles do not produce enough testosterone or the hormones that control sperm production.
Genetic problems:
Disorders such as Klinefelter syndrome can affect sperm production and testosterone levels.
Urogenital abnormalities:
Congenital or acquired malformations can make conception difficult, such as hypospadias (opening of the urethra in the wrong place).
Previous vasectomy:
After a vasectomy, fertility may be affected, although it can sometimes be reversed with surgery.
Cancer treatments:
Chemotherapy or radiotherapy can damage the testicles and affect sperm production.
Genitourinary infections:
Infections such as gonorrhoea or chlamydia can affect the ducts that carry sperm.
Use of medicines:
Medications such as anabolic steroids or certain prostate treatments can reduce fertility.
Increase in scrotal temperature:
Conditions such as varicocele (dilated veins) or cryptorchidism (undescended testicles) can raise the temperature of the testicles and affect sperm production.
Each cause can be treated with specific tests and personalised treatments, helping to improve the chances of conception.
¿How is male infertility diagnosed?
The diagnosis usually begins when the man and his partner come to the clinic after failing to conceive after a year of unprotected sexual intercourse.
At Andrology Valencia, we carry out a thorough diagnosis to understand the possible causes of male infertility. The process generally begins when the patient and his partner present with difficulties conceiving after 12 months or more of unprotected sexual intercourse.
Complete medical history
We assess lifestyle, habits (such as alcohol or tobacco consumption), medical and surgical history, as well as any history of sexually transmitted infections or regular medication.
Physical examination
We perform a detailed examination of the testicles to detect possible abnormalities such as varicocele, absence of testicles or masses. We also assess secondary sexual characteristics.
Genetic testing
In some cases, we perform a karyotype, Y chromosome microdeletion testing, or cystic fibrosis gene mutation testing to detect possible genetic abnormalities that may affect fertility.
Laboratory tests
We measure key hormone levels, such as testosterone, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinising hormone), to assess the functioning of the testicles and pituitary gland.
Sperm analysis
We analyse semen quality, assessing sperm count, motility and morphology.
Testicular ecography or prostate magnetic resonance scan
Depending on the symptoms, we use imaging techniques to assess possible obstructions or structural abnormalities in the reproductive organs.
At Andrology Valencia, we ensure a personalised and detailed approach for each patient, using all available tools to provide a clear diagnosis and effective treatment options.
Treatments for male infertility in Valencia
At Andrología Valencia, we offer a personalised approach to treating male infertility, using advanced techniques tailored to each patient’s needs. Our goal is to improve fertility and help achieve pregnancy, whether through medical or surgical treatments, or a combination of both.
Pharmacological treatments
In Valencia, we offer treatments such as gonadotropins to stimulate sperm production, anti-oestrogens (such as clomiphene) to improve sperm quality, aromatase inhibitors to promote testosterone, and antioxidants to improve semen quality and sperm motility. Each treatment is tailored to the patient’s needs in order to achieve the best results.
Testicular biopsy (TESE and microTESE)
TESE and microTESE are surgical procedures to extract sperm directly from the testicles in cases of azoospermia (absence of sperm in the semen). These sperm can be used in assisted fertilisation techniques, such as ICSI.
Microsurgical vasovasostomy
This treatment involves reversing a vasectomy by joining the severed vas deferens to restore fertility. It is a delicate procedure that requires microscopy to ensure precision in the reconnection.
Microsurgical Varicocelectomy
It is a surgical procedure to correct varicocele, which is the abnormal dilation of the testicular veins. This procedure improves semen quality, increasing the chances of natural conception or assisted fertilisation.
Specialists in male infertility: advanced treatments in Valencia
If you are looking for an andrologist or urologist in Valencia to treat male infertility, the Valencia Andrology Clinic at CLÍNICA CÓZAR is the ideal choice. Our team of specialists offers comprehensive and personalised treatment for fertility problems, ensuring that you receive the appropriate care for your reproductive health and well-being.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
This text now includes keywords related to male infertility, such as ‘male infertility’ and ‘reproductive health’, making it more relevant to those seeking this type of treatment.