Male Infertility
Male infertility means a man's contribution is part of the reason a couple has not conceived after a year of trying. In Nigeria the woman is often tested and treated for years before anyone asks for a semen analysis, even though a male factor is involved in a large share of couples who struggle to conceive. The common causes are a low sperm count, sperm that do not move well, past infections, a varicocele and hormone problems. Many are treatable, and a simple test is the first step.
Find a Urology SpecialistMedically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Not conceiving after 12 months of regular unprotected sex
- Often no other symptoms at all
- Problems with erection or ejaculation
- A lump, swelling or ache in the scrotum (sometimes a varicocele)
- A past history of mumps after puberty, groin surgery or sexually transmitted infection
- Less body or facial hair, or breast enlargement (a possible hormone problem)
When to See a Doctor
If a couple has not conceived after 12 months of trying, or six months if the woman is over 35, the man should have a semen analysis at the same time as the woman starts her tests. See a urologist sooner if you have had testicular surgery, an undescended testicle, a past sexually transmitted infection, or a lump in the scrotum. Any new lump in a testicle needs to be seen within days.
Treatment options
- Semen analysis, repeated if abnormal
- Hormone blood tests and a scrotal ultrasound scan
- Treating infections, and stopping medicines or substances that harm sperm, including anabolic steroids
- Varicocele repair where a varicocele is affecting sperm
- Hormone treatment for specific hormone deficiencies
- Assisted conception: IUI, IVF or ICSI, with surgical sperm retrieval when there is no sperm in the semen
What it costs on Mezo
Published cash prices for the operations used to treat this condition. Your own quote follows an examination.
Common Questions
How do I prepare for a semen analysis?
Avoid ejaculation for two to seven days beforehand, collect the whole sample into the sterile container the laboratory gives you, and get it to the laboratory within about an hour, kept close to body temperature. An abnormal result is usually repeated, because sperm counts vary from week to week.
Can a low sperm count be treated?
Often, yes. Treating a varicocele, an infection or a hormone problem, and stopping smoking, heavy drinking and steroid use, can all improve the count. Where it cannot be improved enough, IVF with ICSI needs only a small number of healthy sperm.
Do fertility supplements for men work?
Some antioxidant supplements may modestly improve sperm quality, but the evidence that they lead to more pregnancies is weak. They should not replace a proper assessment of both partners.
Need Help?
Find a verified urology specialist near you.
Urology in Lagos →Urology in Abuja →Urology in Port Harcourt →Urology in Jos →Urology in Ibadan →Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.