Male Infertility
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Texas IVF
Alfred J Rodriguez, MD
Fertility Specialist located in Plano, TX
Male infertility contributes to around 30% of all cases of couples who are unable to conceive. Dr. Alfred J. Rodriguez of Texas IVF in Plano, Texas has expertise in the treatment of male infertility, using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). If you suspect male infertility is halting your ability to get pregnant, call or book an appointment online with Texas IVF today.
Male Infertility Q & A
What is male infertility?
Male infertility is when the male partner is either a contributing factor or the main source of a couple’s inability to conceive a child. The cause of a man’s infertility usually falls into one of three categories.
Abnormal sperm
Sperm that have a short lifespan or have low activity are considered abnormal. This may be due to malformed, infectious, or inflamed testicles, or swollen veins in the scrotum.
Low sperm count or lack of sperm
A low sperm count or lack of sperm hinders the chances of egg fertilization. Some causes for this condition include childhood illness or the use of drugs or alcohol.
Ejaculation problems
When the ejaculation process is hindered, the sperm can’t reach the egg to fertilize it. Problems like premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction can hinder fertility.
Other causes of male infertility may include a history of sexually transmitted diseases, urinary tract infections, and spinal injury.
How can the cause of male infertility be determined?
To determine the cause of your male infertility, Dr. Rodriguez takes a comprehensive health history. He may also order tests that include:
- Blood work to test for hormones or infection
- Semen tests to identify characteristics of sperm
- Penile fluid culture to test for infection
- Possible referral to a urologist
The staff members at Texas IVF know this can be a sensitive issue, and they strive to offer compassionate support for each couple under their care.
How is male infertility treated?
Depending on what’s causing your male infertility, Dr. Rodriguez may suggest medication to increase sperm count or fight infection, or suggest lifestyle changes that may improve you and your partner’s chances of conceiving.
Texas IVF also offers an advanced reproductive technology (ART) service called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). With this technique, a sperm sample is obtained — either provided by the patient or by using a needle — and a single, healthy sperm is injected directly into a mature egg.
This process takes place as part of the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and is done by highly skilled ART specialists.
While no ART absolutely guarantees pregnancy, Dr. Rodriguez has extensive experience in both the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility, as well as the use of ICSI to significantly increase your chances of healthy conception.
If you would like to discuss male infertility or the use of ICSI, call or book your appointment online today.
