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One of the most common misconceptions is that fertility is a women’s issue only. Although various female-specific factors do contribute, men and their reproductive organs contribute to half of all couples seeking medical reproductive care. At our fertility clinics in Greater Vancouver, BC and Edmonton, AB, we provide comprehensive services for male fertility issues.
PCRM boasts a team of highly skilled reproductive endocrinologists and fertility specialists who are adept at accurately diagnosing and treating various causes of both male and female infertility. Our commitment to comprehensive care ensures that patients receive personalized treatment plans tailored to their specific needs. Moreover, we understand the emotional and physical challenges that come with male infertility.
A number of factors may contribute to male factor infertility, including:
With male infertility, other than the inability to conceive, the symptoms are often subtle. In many cases, men do not find out they are infertile until undergoing an evaluation. While aging doesn’t play as much of a role in male infertility as it does for women, being over the age of 40 can contribute. Men who are older typically don’t produce as much sperm or testosterone, a crucial sex hormone. Their sperm is also more likely to be lower in quality or have high levels of DNA defragmentation, which contributes to the risk of miscarriage.
That being said, there are a few signs and symptoms that can indicate a fertility issue in men. These include:
If you’re struggling to conceive and/or experiencing any of the above symptoms, consider scheduling a consultation with a male infertility specialist as soon as possible. Only a semen analysis can give you real insights into your reproductive health.
Male factor infertility is often relatively easy to treat, depending on the exact cause. There is a wide range of options and procedures available, including:
Low or abnormal sperm production, as well as blockages preventing the delivery of healthy sperm, can worsen infertility. It's essential to have a high sperm count; having fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen, or fewer than 39 million per ejaculate, may reduce the chances of fertilizing your partner's egg.
Male fertility issues are fairly common. According to The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC), it’s estimated that at least 30% of infertility cases are caused by male fertility factors.
While occasional stress is a normal part of life and is unlikely to cause male infertility, chronic or severe stress might have an impact. Prolonged stress can lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting sperm production and quality. Additionally, extreme stress can lead to behaviors such as unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and disrupted sleep patterns, all of which can indirectly influence fertility. However, it's essential to note that the relationship between stress and infertility is complex and may vary from person to person. Consulting a healthcare provider or fertility specialist is advisable for personalized evaluation and guidance.
Male infertility is diagnosed through a series of tests, including semen analysis and bloodwork to measure hormone levels.
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a form of assisted reproduction technology that is performed alongside IVF. In a regular IVF procedure, sperm cells are combined with egg cells to allow for natural fertilization to occur; with ICSI, a single sperm is injected directly into an egg using an exceptionally small needle. This treatment is often recommended for men who have severe male infertility.
At PCRM, renowned male infertility specialists Dr. Victor Chow and Dr. Kenneth Poon collaborate with our fertility doctors to provide expert male fertility evaluation and treatment services to patients across British Columbia, Alberta, and Western Canada. Contact PCRM for a consultation or any fertility inquiries, taking a significant step toward building a family.
