Male infertility

What is male infertility?

Male infertility is said to occur when, despite having regular unprotected sexual intercourse over the course of a year, no pregnancy occurs. In women there is a distinction between sterility and infertility, depending on whether they are able to become pregnant at all or whether a pregnancy can occur but cannot be carried to term. In men, however, this distinction is not made.

What are the causes of infertility in men?

There are numerous potential causes of infertility, which may be organic, physiological or psychological in nature. Examples of organic causes include congenital malformations of the reproductive organs, such as failure of the testicles to descend into the scrotum or hernias in the groin area. Sperm production or function disorders can also lead to infertility. The physiological causes of infertility are disorders of the ejaculation process, such as erectile dysfunction, premature or absent ejaculation. In addition, psychological factors can have a negative impact on a man's fertility, as they can prevent or make sexual intercourse more difficult.

What are the signs of infertility?

Infertility is usually only diagnosed when pregnancy does not occur after a year of regular unprotected sexual intercourse. Early signs are therefore difficult to determine. Nevertheless, it may already become apparent during this year if regular sexual intercourse is even possible or if there are already any restrictions. For example, an erectile dysfunction is defined as a weakening of an erection over six months, which mostly prevents successful sexual intercourse. This may already be considered as a sign of potential infertility.

How is a man’s fertility tested? 

The first step in examining a man's fertility is to conduct a detailed initial interview, in which sexual habits and possible psychological factors are assessed. Furthermore, the levels of sex hormones in the blood are measured, as these also play an important role in successful sexual intercourse. To detect any organic abnormalities, an ultrasound examination of the reproductive organs and groin area is performed. The ultrasound could reveal an inguinal hernia or a missing testicle in the scrotum, for example. If there is a suspicion of impaired sperm functionality, a test of the ejaculate is carried out. This provides information on whether the sperm are present in sufficient numbers, whether they are mobile and whether they are developing anatomically correctly. The chemical composition of the ejaculate is also examined to ensure, for example, that the pH value is within the normal range.

Which doctor is the right contact person?

It is recommended to start by consulting your general practitioner. In many cases, your general practitioner can already provide initial therapeutic approaches and then refer you to other specialists. Once the initial diagnosis has been made, the patient is usually referred to a urologist, i.e. a specialist for the male genital tract and urinary organs. The urologist will initiate further examinations and, depending on the cause, begin treatment.

What options are available if a man is infertile?  

The treatment options for infertility depend heavily on the cause of the condition. The psychological causes can be dealt with by means of counseling sessions or therapy. Congenital organic malformations usually require surgical interventions to restore anatomical functionality. If there is a problem with sperm quantity or quality, in vitro fertilization can be carried out as a possible fertilization method. Which method is used and when is decided by the urologist in the course of treatment and should be individually adjusted.

Can infertility be prevented?

There are some causes of infertility that cannot be prevented (e.g. congenital malformations). There are, however, risk factors that can promote the development of infertility. Examples include smoking, and regular consumption of alcohol and other drugs. Obesity and its associated secondary diseases such as high blood pressure also have a negative effect on a man's fertility. Moreover, frequent traumatic impacts on the genital region caused by blows, falls are also to be avoided.

Which doctors and clinics specialize in male infertility?

Anyone in need of a doctor would expect the best possible medical care for themselves. Therefore, patients are looking for the most suitable clinic for their needs. Since this is not an objective decision and a respectable doctor would refrain from claiming to be the best, patients must trust the experience of a doctor.

We can help you find an appropriate expert for your condition. All the doctors and clinics listed have undergone extensive review and have been verified by us for their outstanding expertise in the field of male infertility. They are looking forward to and are ready to address your questions and treatment requests.