How to combat Oligospermy? Discover a common cause of male infertility in New Zealand

While discussing male infertility, it is common to address the primary causes. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that certain abnormalities may be associated with underlying conditions or diseases, which can lead to the development of further complications. Identifying these issues at an early stage allows for potential correction or consideration of alternative solutions that may yield better outcomes.

One of the most common and harmful conditions is Oligospermy, which is a male disorder that hinders conception because it reduces the amount of sperm present in the semen. According to WHO data, a man has Oligospermy if his sperm concentration is less than 15 million spermatozoa per milliliter.

Oligospermy can be attributed to various factors, including hormonal disorders, testicular issues, or infections. Besides, 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 is most common in a single testicle (80%) and the left testicle is the most affected. Bilateral cryptorchidism is less common. To prevent fertility difficulties, boys with cryptorchidism need to have surgery to descend the testicles 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 in which the testicles do not produce enough sex hormones, such as testosterone. This affects sperm production and can cause infertility as well.

Male hypogonadism can be classified into two main types:

  • Primary hypogonadism occurs when the testes are unable to function properly due to internal issues. A well-known genetic disorder associated with this type is Klinefelter’s syndrome, which often leads to low testosterone levels, diminished muscle mass, limited facial and body hair growth, and decreased 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.

Treatment of this condition depends on the type of hypogonadism. In some cases, hormonal treatment can help restore testicular function and increase sperm production, leading to improved fertility projection.

Hydrocele

Testicular hydrocele is a condition that causes fluid to accumulate around one or both testicles. It can be congenital or acquired, and is more common in men over 40 years of age.

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.

Men with severe oligoteratozoospermia who want to have children will need to undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In this treatment, sperm with good shape are selected under the microscope and injected directly into the egg, thus increasing the chances of a healthy embryo.

Are you from New Zealand? Get an accurate diagnosis for better results

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.

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