When discussing male infertility, the focus is often on the most common causes. However, it is important to consider that certain abnormalities may be linked to other underlying conditions or diseases, which can potentially give rise to additional complications. Early detection of these issues offers the opportunity for correction or exploration of more effective alternative solutions.
Oligospermy is a common and significant condition that can hinder male fertility by reducing the quantity of sperm in the semen. According to data provided by the World Health Organization (WHO), a man is diagnosed with oligospermy when his sperm concentration is below 15 million spermatozoa per milliliter.
Oligospermy can be attributed to various factors, including hormonal disorders, testicular issues, or infections. Moreover, it is often associated with other conditions, some of which are described below:
Cryptorchidism: a condition associated with oligospermy
Cryptorchidism refers to the condition wherein one or both testicles fail to descend into the scrotum before birth. This can give rise to fertility difficulties because the undescended testicles are exposed to elevated temperatures, which can impact the production of sperm.
Cryptorchidism predominantly affects a single testicle in about 80% of cases, with the left testicle being the most commonly affected. Bilateral cryptorchidism, where both testicles are undescended, is less frequent. To mitigate the risk of fertility difficulties, boys diagnosed with cryptorchidism should undergo surgical intervention to bring down the testicles into the scrotum before the age of 2 years.
Varicocele
Testicular varicocele is a condition characterized by the enlargement of veins that supply blood to the testicles. This dilation can lead to an increase in testicular temperature, which can adversely affect sperm production. While it is more commonly observed in one testicle, it can also affect both. When varicocele affects both testicles, it is more likely to contribute to infertility.
Furthermore, testicular varicocele can contribute to the development of oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, a condition characterized by low-quality spermatozoa in terms of their number, motility, and morphology.
With appropriate treatment, oligoasthenoteratozoospermia caused by testicular varicocele can often show improvement. In severe cases, surgery is typically considered the most effective treatment option.
Hypogonadism and oligospermy: links in reproductive health
Male hypogonadism is a condition characterized by insufficient production of sex hormones, including testosterone, by the testicles. This condition has a direct impact on sperm production and can result in infertility.
There are two primary types of male hypogonadism that can be distinguished:
- Primary hypogonadism: the testes do not function properly due to a problem in the testes themselves. The most common genetic disorder of this type is Klinefelter’s syndrome, which can result in low testosterone levels, reduced muscle mass, poor facial and body hair, and reduced sperm production.
- In cases of secondary hypogonadism, the issue lies in the hypothalamus or pituitary glands, which are responsible for producing the hormones that stimulate the testes to produce sperm.
The treatment approach for hypogonadism varies depending on the type of the condition. In certain cases, hormonal treatment can be employed to restore testicular function and enhance sperm production, thereby increasing the chances of improved fertility.
Hydrocele
Testicular hydrocele is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fluid around one or both testicles. It can be either congenital or acquired, and it is more frequently observed in men who are over 40 years old.
While hydrocele itself does not typically cause infertility, it may be linked to infertility in approximately 10% of cases. This association arises from the potential partial obstruction of the vas deferens, which can lead to a reduction in the sperm count within the semen.
Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia
Oligoteratozoospermia refers to a condition where the concentration of spermatozoa in the semen is low, and the shape of the spermatozoa is abnormal. This term combines two observations from a spermogram: “oligo,” indicating a low sperm concentration (less than 15 million per milliliter), and “terato,” representing a low percentage of sperm with normal morphology (less than 4%). The presence of abnormal sperm morphology can hinder fertilization and potentially affect the development of embryos.
In cases of severe oligoteratozoospermia, men who wish to have children often undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). During this procedure, sperm with normal morphology are carefully chosen under microscopic guidance and directly injected into the egg. By employing this method, the chances of obtaining a viable embryo are significantly increased.
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Although these diagnoses may dampen the hopes of men who aspire to have a family, it is essential to understand the positive significance of detecting and addressing these conditions on time. This realization can mark a transformative phase in enhancing fertility and promoting overall health.
It is advisable to keep up to date with general check-ups, not only to increase the chances of being able to start a family, but also to avoid these diagnoses that can lead to irreversible consequences. These diagnoses can compromise the health and well-being of patients.
If you are aspiring to start a family but are encountering difficulties in conception or are aware of someone facing infertility or related complications, it is essential to reach out to specialized clinics that specialize in oligospermy, male fertility, and assisted reproduction, such as Babynova Clinic by Novafem. Seeking advice and treatment from these clinics at the earliest opportunity can make a significant difference in addressing these issues.
