Infertility is often perceived as a women’s health issue, but male infertility accounts for nearly 40–50% of all infertility cases. Despite its prevalence, it remains a less-discussed and often misunderstood subject. With advancements in medical science and diagnostics, urologists now play a pivotal role in identifying and treating the root causes of male infertility.
If you and your partner have been trying to conceive without success, a comprehensive evaluation by a qualified urologist like Dr. Anup Gulati can help you understand the underlying issues and explore treatment options that restore fertility.
🔍 What is Male Infertility?
Male infertility refers to a man’s inability to cause pregnancy in a fertile female partner, typically after one year of regular, unprotected intercourse. It is usually due to problems with sperm production, sperm function, or delivery of sperm.
🚨 Common Causes of Male Infertility
Several factors can contribute to male infertility. These include:
✅ Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)
Insufficient number of sperm in the semen is one of the most common causes.
✅ Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenospermia)
Even if the sperm count is normal, if they don’t swim effectively, fertilization becomes difficult.
✅ Abnormal Sperm Morphology
Sperm shape and structure are essential for successful fertilization.
✅ Varicocele
An enlargement of veins within the scrotum that can affect sperm quality.
✅ Hormonal Imbalances
Low levels of testosterone or disruptions in LH and FSH levels may impact fertility.
✅ Ejaculatory or Erectile Dysfunction
Problems with ejaculation or maintaining an erection can prevent sperm delivery.
✅ Obstructive Causes
Blockages in the reproductive tract can prevent sperm from being ejaculated.
✅ Genetic Factors
Chromosomal abnormalities such as Klinefelter syndrome may be involved.
✅ Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Smoking, alcohol, obesity, stress, heat exposure, and exposure to toxins can reduce fertility.
🧪 How Does a Urologist Diagnose Male Infertility?
At Dr. Anup Gulati’s clinic, a step-by-step evaluation is done to determine the exact cause of male infertility:
1. Detailed Medical & Sexual History
Includes past illnesses, surgeries, family history, lifestyle habits, and sexual function.
2. Physical Examination
A physical exam helps detect varicocele, testicular abnormalities, or signs of hormonal imbalance.
3. Semen Analysis
This is the cornerstone of male infertility diagnosis. It evaluates:
- Sperm count
- Motility
- Morphology
- Volume and pH of semen
4. Hormonal Testing
Blood tests to assess testosterone, LH, FSH, prolactin, and thyroid function.
5. Scrotal Ultrasound
Helps identify varicocele, cysts, or obstructions in the epididymis or vas deferens.
6. Genetic Testing
Advised if sperm count is extremely low or if there are signs of congenital issues.
7. Testicular Biopsy
In cases of azoospermia (no sperm), a biopsy may help differentiate between obstructive and non-obstructive causes.
🛠️ Treatment Options for Male Infertility
Once the cause is identified, Dr. Anup Gulati tailors a treatment plan that addresses the specific issue. Treatments range from simple lifestyle changes to advanced surgical procedures.
💊 1. Medical Management
➤ Hormonal Therapy
Correcting imbalances in testosterone, FSH, or LH can help stimulate sperm production.
➤ Antioxidant Supplements
Vitamins like C, E, selenium, zinc, and CoQ10 may improve sperm quality.
➤ Medications for Sexual Dysfunction
Drugs like sildenafil (Viagra) may be prescribed for erectile issues.
🔬 2. Surgical Treatments
✅ Varicocelectomy
A microsurgical procedure to correct varicocele and improve sperm count and quality.
✅ Vasovasostomy / Vasoepididymostomy
Used to reverse vasectomy or correct obstructions in the vas deferens or epididymis.
✅ Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE)
Sperm are surgically extracted from the testicle in cases of azoospermia for use in IVF/ICSI.
✅ Transurethral Resection of Ejaculatory Ducts (TURED)
Performed if a blockage in the ejaculatory ducts is found.
🧬 3. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART)
When natural conception isn’t possible despite treatment, ART can be the next step:
➤ Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
Washed and concentrated sperm are directly placed into the uterus during ovulation.
➤ In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Eggs and sperm are fertilized in a lab and the embryo is implanted into the uterus.
➤ Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI)
A single healthy sperm is injected directly into the egg – ideal for very low sperm count or motility.
👨⚕️ Why See a Urologist for Male Infertility?
While couples often consult gynecologists for infertility, a urologist is the specialist for male reproductive health. Dr. Anup Gulati brings:
- Advanced diagnostic techniques
- Expertise in male reproductive surgery
- A holistic approach to fertility, sexual health, and hormonal balance
He works closely with fertility specialists to ensure couples get the most appropriate and effective treatment options.
🕒 When Should You See a Urologist?
You should consult a urologist if:
- You’ve been trying to conceive for over a year without success
- You have known risk factors (e.g., varicocele, undescended testis, prior surgery)
- You experience sexual dysfunction
- You have abnormal semen analysis results
📍 Consult Dr. Anup Gulati – Expert in Male Fertility Care
If you’re facing infertility concerns, the first step is a thorough evaluation. Dr. Anup Gulati, with his vast experience and compassionate care, ensures that every patient receives a personalized diagnosis and treatment plan based on their unique needs.