Infertility treatments for men

Male Infertility Treatments

The primary known causes of male infertility are due to hypogonadism (testosterone deficiency) or a blockage in sperm transport.

Hypogonadism fertility treatments in Men

Hypogonadism in men results in low testosterone levels that impairs or stops sperm production. Treatment for hypogonadism depends on blood test levels of gonadotropins (FSH, LH). Medication can sometimes help increase testosterone levels and stimulate sperm production.

For men with hypogonadism caused by low gonadotropins levels:
Some men with low gonadotropins levels respond to injectable hormone replacements. Often, these medications need to be taken for 6 months to 1 year.

• Human chorionic gonadotropins (hCG) – hCG is a hormone that resembles LH. hCG shots are administered several times a week to stimulate testosterone production. hCG may be taken for up to 6 months, during which testosterone levels are regularly monitored.
• Human menopausal gonadotropins (HMG) - a lack of response in testosterone production after 6 months of hCG may require additional injectable medications that include FSH. HMG medication contains both LH and FSH.

For men with hypogonadism, but with normal gonadotropins levels:

• Clomiphene citrate and tamoxifen (Clomid) – clomid blocks the activity of estrogen hormones, which may lead to the increase in gonadotropins levels. Trials have shown that clomid increases sperm production when taken by men with low sperm counts. Clomid should be supplemented with antioxidant vitamins C or E.

Treatments that address sperm transport blockage:

• Surgery. The male reproductive system can become obstructed and prevent the normal passage of sperm. Blockages can be caused by congenital defects, previous surgery, injury, or infections. Common sites of blockage occur in the epididymitis, vas deferens, ejaculatory ducts.
• Retrograde ejaculation. This condition causes sperm to flow into the bladder. Sperm can be recovered from urine samples.