Can STIs Affect Male Fertility?

SSIs and Fertility

According to the CDC, approximately one in five Americans have an STI. That number may be a low estimate, as some STIs can stay in the body without presenting any symptoms. Left untreated, STIs can negatively impact the fertility of both men and women, even causing long lasting damage to the reproductive system. Fortunately, most STIs can be successfully treated if they are caught early, which is why regular testing is so important. Here, we look at some of the STIs that can affect male fertility.

Chlamydia

The most curable STI, chlamydia is problematic because most people who contract it do not show symptoms. It affects nearly two million Americans each year and has been proven to cause female infertility if left untreated, by damaging the fallopian tubes. It can also be passed to newborn babies, causing inclusion conjunctivitis during a vaginal birth. The connection with male infertility is less clear cut, but there is evidence to suggest that untreated chlamydia can significantly reduce sperm quality and motility.

Herpes

Herpes is an STI without a cure. Symptoms come and go, but the virus stays in the body forever. There is not much research on how herpes impacts male fertility, though one study found that it may be associated with low sperm count. However, if a man passes herpes to his partner and she becomes pregnant, she can pass it to the baby, and this can have serious consequences. Fortunately, while passing it between partners is common, passing it to the infant is rare.

Gonorrhea

Like chlamydia, gonorrhea often presents no symptoms. Both of these illnesses can cause inflammation in the epididymis, the tube at the back of the testicles responsible for storing and transporting sperm. If caught, this inflammation, known as epididymitis, can be successfully treated with antibiotics. However, cases that are left untreated can result in infertility. Gonorrhea is another STI that can be passed on to newborn babies, and this can lead to blindness. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are two major causes of preventable infertility.

Mycoplasma

This STI is not as well-known as the others, perhaps because it was only discovered in 1981. It presents with symptoms that can be confused with a urinary tract infection, but is often accompanied by epididymitis. It is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility in women, and there is evidence to suggest it also impacts male fertility.

Syphilis

Many people mistakenly believe that syphilis is a disease that has been eradicated, but this is, unfortunately, untrue. In fact, between 2018 and 2022, reported cases of syphilis in the United States rose by 80 percent, with the CDC documenting 207,255 total cases in 2022. Often, the symptoms are mild, so they can go undetected, but if left untreated, syphilis can last for years or even decades, causing serious health issues. It can impact male fertility by causing erectile dysfunction and epididymitis, and if the man passes it on to his partner and she becomes pregnant, she is at higher risk of miscarriage. Syphilis can also be passed to the baby, and this can be fatal.

Hepatitis

There are several different types of hepatitis, and hepatitis B is the one most commonly linked to sexual transmission. Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, and can cause lower sperm count or mobility, resulting in a higher rate of infertility in people with hepatitis than in those without. Adults are typically able to fight off hepatitis, but children infected with this virus often develop a long-term infection that can have serious consequences, including liver cancer and cirrhosis of the liver.

HIV

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is, of course, the virus that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). There is no cure for either condition, though treatment can control the virus and allow people with HIV to lead long, healthy lives. HIV can impact male fertility in a few ways. First, because it lowers the body’s immunity, it can make a man vulnerable to other STIs that cause fertility issues. There is also research indicating that HIV causes a loss of the cells that develop into sperm, and can cause hypogonadism and low testosterone. The good news is that there are assisted reproduction options to allow people who are HIV positive to successfully and safely have children.

Trust Center for Vasectomy Reversal with Your Fertility

At Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we are committed to men’s health. We pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How Hypothyroidism Affects Men’s Fertility

How Hypothyroidism Affects Men’s Fertility

When you think about hypothyroidism, you probably think of it as a disease affecting women. That’s because it affects far more females than males, but males can have thyroid disease, too. The problem is that men often experience symptoms that are unique, and sometimes doctors miss the signs.

Hypothyroid Symptoms in Men

The process of diagnosing hypothyroidism is the same, regardless of gender. However, this condition, in which an underactive affects the body affects the body in many different ways, is often caused by the immune system attacking or damaging the thyroid gland. An iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism, as can certain medications and surgeries. When the thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, it can cause changes in body weight, fatigue, and other symptoms that diminish quality of life, including problems with mental capacity and bowel movements. In older men, however, symptoms can sometimes be missed because they occur in men without thyroid disease, too. Symptoms of thyroid disease in males include:

• Hair loss
• Reduced Libido
• Loss of muscle mass and strength
• Erectile dysfunction
• Delayed ejaculation
• Infertility
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Intolerance of Cold
• Weight Gain
• Pain and stiffness in the joints
• Puffy face
• Elevated blood cholesterol level
• Slowed heart rate

Diagnosis and Treatment for Hypothyroidism

Fortunately, many of these symptoms can be reversed with treatment. Hypothyroidism is diagnosed the same way in men and women, with a blood test to assess thyroid function. The primary treatment for hypothyroid is a thyroid-replacement pill. Many people have to take this synthetic thyroid hormone for the rest of their lives, but it is simple, safe, and effective when administered correctly. Your doctor will monitor your hormone levels, in order to adjust your medication as needed.

Let Center for Vasectomy Reversal  Help Improve Your Reproductive Health

If you believe you may be exhibiting the symptoms of hypothyroidism, especially if you feel it may be inhibiting your fertility, be proactive in asking your doctor for a blood test. Infertility can be a complicated issue, and it is important to stay informed and alert about things that could be causing it. At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Do Men’s Fertility Supplements Really Help?

Understanding Male Infertility

Male infertility is common, and in about half of all cases in which a couple is struggling to conceive, the man is part of the problem. In 20 percent, they’re the entire cause of the issue. There are many different causes of male infertility, but most of the time, a man’s fertility depends on the quality and quantity of his sperm. Is there anything you can do to improve these factors? Can fertility supplements really help?

Male Fertility Supplements

There is no shortage of dietary supplements on the market, purporting to boost male fertility. There are pills, capsules, tablets, and liquids, containing ingredients like zinc, selenium, arginine, coenzyme Q, and folic acid. Research into these supplements has had mixed results, in part because there haven’t been many large, well-designed trials. The general consensus, however, is that, while supplements can be beneficial, it’s better get your nutrition from your diet.

Which Nutrients Are Most Important for Male Fertility?

To be beneficial, a supplement doesn’t need to be specifically designated for fertility. Choosing nutrients that benefit your fertility, even if they are just regular vitamins and minerals, can help supplement your diet and have a positive impact. For a man experiencing fertility issues, taking supplements can be a proactive step that helps him feel a sense of control over his situation. Here are some of the most important nutrients for male fertility.

• Vitamin C: Known for its immunity-boosting properties, Vitamin C also improves sperm motility and boosts circulation. It’s especially important for smokers, and is best delivered in foods that are raw or lightly cooked. Because it doesn’t stay in your body, it needs to be part of your diet each day, and can be found in peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, tomatoes, papaya, strawberries, kiwi, and citrus fruit.
• Zinc: One of the most important nutrients for male fertility, zinc is a powerful antioxidant. Good sources of zinc include meats like oysters, steak, venison, and lamb, vegetables like spinach, green peas, and white mushrooms, seeds and nuts like pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, cashews, pecans, almonds, walnuts peanuts, and other foods, including wheat, oats, eggs, and dark chocolate.
• Arginine: Also called L-arginine, this amino acid is believed to increase sperm count and improve sperm quality, as well as increasing blood flow around the body. It’s found in almonds, walnuts, peanuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, lentils, and kidney beans.
• CoQ10: Coenzyme Q10 is an antioxidant thought to improve sperm quality and motility. CoQ10 rich foods include beef, pork, chicken, fish, peanuts, pistachios, sesame seeds, oranges, strawberries, broccoli, and cauliflower. It’s better to get CoQ10 through diet, because supplements can cause unpleasant side effects like stomach issues and insomnia.
• Selenium: Selenium increases sperm motility, but it is important not to take too much about it, because large quantities can be toxic. Get your doctor’s advice before taking selenium supplements, but you can get it through your diet by eating Brazil nuts, strawberries, and sunflower seeds.
• L-Carnitine: This amino acid assists with cellular metabolism and sperm motility. Your body produces L-Carnitine, but you can add to it by eating red meat, cheese, nuts, seeds, artichokes, asparagus, broccoli and Brussel sprouts.
• Folate: Also called vitamin B9 or folic acid, this is extremely important for female fertility, and there is evidence that it improves sperm quality. Folate is found in broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts, asparagus, celery, carrots, peas, citrus fruits, lentils, avocado, strawberries, fortified foods, and liver.
• Antioxidants: Antioxidants combat free radicals and improve sperm quality. Vitamin C and zinc are excellent antioxidants, as are vitamin E and beta-carotene. Carrots, sweet potato, spinach, peppers, broccoli, lettuce, kale, squash, pumpkins, tomatoes, and mangos are all good sources of beta carotene, while vitamin E can be found in almonds, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, spinach, broccoli, avocado, apricots, and wheat germ.

Help with Fertility, From Experienced Medical Professionals

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more about the work we do or our discounts for active duty military and veterans, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

Navigating Male Fertility Challenges as a Couple

Couple discussing fertility issues.

Infertility is a Shared Problem

About one in six couples globally struggles with infertility. While this is often considered a female issue, approximately 40 percent of infertility cases in the United States are connected with male infertility, making it, most definitely, a couple’s issue. While both partners experience emotional distress and relationship stress, the perceived social stigma regarding male infertility and, indeed, male emotional response to infertility, make it challenging for men to find support. Here, we offer advice for couples navigating male fertility challenges.

Men Have Feelings Too

Let’s just start by stating the obvious. Boys and men are conditioned by society to avoid vulnerability, hide their feelings, and be strong, no matter what, but that doesn’t mean their feelings don’t matter. Infertility and pregnancy loss are very painful experiences, and can deeply affect a person’s mental health. It can be hard to process this very private kind of trauma, but infertility is definitely painful. Feelings men experience as a result of infertility can include:

• A deep sense of loss and grief can accompany the knowledge of an inability to conceive a child.
• Guilt and shame can result from not living up to societal expectations of virility and fertility.
• Men sometimes experience a sense of inadequacy, feeling they’ve failed their partner.
• It can feel isolating to experience infertility, and men feeling the pressure to be strong and stoic may not feel able to ask for support.
• Anger and frustration are natural when dealing with infertility, especially because it’s easy to feel powerless when faced with failed attempts, the inability to find a specific reason for infertility, or seemingly endless fertility treatments.
• Anxiety and depression are common for both partners experiencing infertility, as financial strain mounts, disappointments recur, and the future seems uncertain.

Navigating Infertility as a Couple

While men may have difficulty expressing their emotions, and may feel the need to be strong for their partners, the truth is that infertility is a shared concern. Like many things in a partnership, it is best addressed together, working as a team. How can you work together to overcome the mental and emotional challenges of infertility?

• Talk about it. Communication is important in a relationship, and it is crucial during challenging times or periods of stress. It can be hard to talk about difficult topics, but if you can start out with talking about thoughts it can be easier to segue into talking about emotions, too. Make sure that each partner is spending equal time listening and being heard, be honest with each other, and keep it a safe space, where you can each express difficult thoughts and emotions without judgement. Make sure not to rush these conversations, but carve out time for each other and really listen.
• Don’t neglect other aspects of your life. Infertility can feel all-consuming, but it’s important not to let it overwhelm your life. Make time for fun, go out on dates, play games, and spend time with friends and family. Take time out from fertility drama and make sure that other parts of your life don’t fall by the wayside. Spending light-hearted time together can help alleviate the stress you’re experiencing.
• Learn as a couple. There are plenty of resources for those experiencing infertility, but there is also plenty of misinformation floating around. It is important to know how to separate fact from fiction, and to educate yourselves together. It can be hard to find good resources, which is why it is so important to contact a fertility specialist to help you identify solutions that are good options for you.
• Share responsibilities. Make infertility treatment a team effort. Keeping up with all the medical appointments, medication, and bills can be overwhelming, but it’s less so when you’re both shouldering the responsibility.
• Have clear boundaries. Talk to your partner more than you talk to other people. If you are going to share information with friends of family members, make sure your partner is on board with it before you do it. It is important to have support, but it’s also important to protect your partner’s privacy.
• Seek outside support. While you need clear boundaries, you also need a safe space to share what is happening. Joining a fertility support group where you can interact with others who understand what you’re going through, can be a good way to keep from feeling isolated. Support groups can be in-person or online, and they offer a safe, friendly environment in which to discuss difficult topics.
• Don’t equate infertility with failure. Whether or not you conceive, it doesn’t change who you are as a couple. Fertility is not a reflection on your relationship, and infertility is just one of the challenges you will face in your life together. By keeping communication strong, you can also strengthen your relationship and more easily navigate future challenges.

How Men Can Protect their Mental Health

• Express your emotions. Don’t feel you always have to be strong and stoic. Talk to your partner and find others to talk to as well, who will listen supportively.
• Distract yourself. Plan a weekend getaway, go hiking, take a trip, or just go out to dinner at a new restaurant. You and your partner need things to do that don’t have anything to do with fertility.
• Find support. Whether it’s a support group, a counselor, or a trusted friend or family member, think about who you want to turn to when things are tough. Make a list for yourself of people you can call when you need support.
• Manage stress. Maybe it’s engaging in hobbies you enjoy, or maybe it’s meditation or listening to music. Whatever helps you feel less anxious, more grounded, and happier is good for managing your stress.
• Remember who you are. Infertility doesn’t define you, and it doesn’t define your relationship. Look at old photos, reminisce with your partner, embrace new hobbies, and remind yourself that infertility is just something you’re going through, and not who you are.

Seek Help From Fertility Experts

If you are having trouble conceiving a child, help is available to you. At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How Stress Affects Semen Quality

It’s long been understood that stress has an impact on a person’s health, so it comes as no surprise to learn that men’s reproductive health may be affected by stress. About 12 in every 100 couples in the United States struggles with infertility, and several studies over the past several years have established a link between poor semen quality and stress. Now, a new study is taking a closer look at both subjective and objective measures of stress to try to determine how it’s connected with semen concentration and sperm motility and appearance.

Male infertility is the problem for about 40 percent of couples with fertility issues. The main cause of male infertility is sperm abnormality, including misshapen or immobile sperm or low sperm production. Sometimes, these abnormalities are caused by medical conditions, but they can also be caused by health and lifestyle factors.

The new study, published in the journal Fertility and Sterility was conducted by researchers from the Rutgers School of Public Health in Piscataway, NJ and Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health in New York, NY. Between 2005 and 2008, researchers looked at 193 men between the ages of 38 to 49 who were a part of the Study of the Environment and Reproduction at the Kaiser Foundation Health Plan in Oakland, CA. The men completed a series of tests to measure stress levels, including workplace stress, stressful life events, and perceived stress. They also provided sperm samples, which were analyzed for semen concentration, sperm shape, and sperm movement (motility).

According to the researchers, men who felt stressed had lower concentrations of sperm and more sperm that were misshapen or had impaired motility. Even after considering other factors, like a history of reproductive health or other health problems, life stress negatively impacted sperm quality. Interestingly, job stress did not have the same effect. However, men with stressful jobs had lower levels of testosterone, and unemployed men had a lower quality of sperm than even stressed-out men with jobs.

The researchers don’t fully understand how stress affects semen quality, but they have some theories. It could be that stress triggers the release of glucocorticoids, steroid hormones which lower testosterone and dampen sperm production. Oxidative stress could also be a factor because oxidative stress in the body can degrade semen quality.

What is known is that a man can improve his fertility, even under stress, with healthy lifestyle habits. Staying physically active and practicing stress-reducing relaxation techniques can help, as can eating a nutritious diet and maintaining a healthy BMI. Men who are trying to improve their fertility should quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and talk to a doctor before beginning any new medication.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we pride ourselves on helping men improve their fertility through uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, contact us through our website or call 941-894-6428.

How to Increase Male Fertility

If you and your partner are struggling to conceive a child, you’re not alone. About one in six couples struggles with infertility, and one in three cases is due to a problem with male fertility. There are some natural remedies you can try, though, that may boost your chances of conception.

• Load up your diet with healthy foods. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, focus on getting antioxidants and healthy fats. Limit your intake of saturated fats and red or processed meat. And be careful about eating soy, because it contains plant estrogen, which can reduce testosterone bonding and sperm production.

• Take your vitamins and minerals. Though the mechanism behind it is not completely understood, research indicates that vitamin D and calcium can impact sperm health. Vitamin C improves fertility by relieving oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, limited studies suggest folate and zinc can improve sperm concentration, count, and overall health.

• Quit smoking. Smoking is bad for every part of the body, so it should come as no surprise that it’s bad for your fertility. In fact, recent research indicates that smoking consistently reduces sperm count and people who smoked moderate or heavy amounts of tobacco had lower sperm quality than non-smokers or even light smokers.

• Watch the alcohol and drugs. Don’t drink to excess, don’t do any illegal drugs, and be mindful of your prescriptions. Some antibiotics, anti-androgens, anti-inflammatories, antipsychotics, opiates, antidepressants, anabolic steroids, supplementary testosterone, and methadone can all negatively affect your fertility. If you’re concerned about a medication you’re taking, talk to your doctor.

• Keep your cool. High temperatures can damage sperm, so if you’re trying to conceive don’t hold your laptop in your lap, wear tight underwear, or soak in hot tubs. Prolonged sitting and using car seat heaters can also cause overheating.

• Consider a supplement. Certain herbal supplements may be beneficial to fertility, including fenugreek, maca root, tribulus terrestris, and Indian ginseng. D-aspartic acid, a type of amino acid, may also be helpful.

• Reduce your exposure to environmental contaminants. Poor air quality and environmental toxins have been shown to decrease male fertility. Additionally, men in jobs with exposure to chemicals and overheating, like farmers, painters, varnishers, metalworkers, and welders, had higher incidences of infertility than other groups.

• Manage your stress. Stress raises cortisol levels, and cortisol lowers testosterone.

• Get some exercise and some sleep. For each, the key is to get just the right amount- not too little and not too much. Getting enough exercise and enough rest can improve your sperm count. It can also help you lose weight, which can improve your fertility.

If you’re struggling with infertility, call the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, where we love helping people build their families! We pride ourselves on providing optimal surgical results and uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides state-of-the-art treatment for men who need a reversal of their vasectomy or have other fertility concerns. To learn more, call 941-894-6428 or contact us through our website.

Everything You Need to Know About Testosterone and Male Fertility

How much do you know about testosterone? You probably associate it with masculine qualities like facial hair, toned muscles, and virility. If testosterone is low, it can interfere with libido and even fertility. So, should you take testosterone to boost your fertility? Fertility doctors say no.

Why can taking a testosterone supplement be a problem? These supplements can sometimes impede the body’s natural ability to produce testosterone, actually undermining a man’s fertility. Worse, many men take it when their testosterone isn’t actually low, thinking this will make it easier for them to conceive a child. Unfortunately, it can have the opposite effect.

It is true that low testosterone can lead to problems with sex drive and fertility. However, it is also true that testosterone levels fluctuate over the course of a day. What’s more, testosterone is not the only hormone involved in fertility. Two important hormones, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), are produced by the pituitary gland. That gland is stimulated by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is produced by the hypothalamus, located in the brain. When the hypothalamus produces GnRH, it triggers the pituitary gland, prompting it to release LH and FSH. FSH activates the production of sperm cells, and LH stimulates testosterone production.

Taking testosterone can disrupt that chain reaction. Because your brain detects testosterone in your body, it slows down the production of GnRH. Your pituitary gland doesn’t produce the correct levels of your other hormones and decreasing sperm production. The resultant lower sperm count impedes conception.

So, what can you do to boost your fertility? First, understand that there are some lifestyle factors that can lower a man’s testosterone. These include too much exercise, a deficient diet, a sedentary lifestyle, a serious illness, alcoholism, and stress. Improving these areas of your life may be better for your testosterone level than just taking a supplement. All the lifestyle habits that you already know are good for your body are good for testosterone production, too.

When you get enough exercise, eat a nutrient dense diet, avoid cigarettes and illegal drugs, limit alcohol consumption, and manage your stress, you’ll be improving your health and your fertility. There are also studies linking low levels of vitamin D to low testosterone, so focus on making sure you get enough by getting some sun and eating foods like fatty fish and fortified cereal. It’s also helpful to keep your testes from getting too hot, because that can lower your sperm count.

If you’re having trouble conceiving, it’s important to consult an expert who can recommend the right course of action. At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we pride ourselves on providing state-of-the-art treatment for men with fertility concerns, including those who need a reversal of their vasectomy. Under the direction of Dr. Joshua Green, our team provides optimal surgical results and uncompromising, concierge-level patient care. To learn more, call 941-894-6428 or contact us through our website.

Vasectomy Reversal Myths

As you contemplate whether a vasectomy reversal is right for you, you may stumble upon common myths about this surgical procedure. Dispel any misunderstandings before you meet with a microsurgeon about reversing your vasectomy.

Myth: A vasectomy reversal is as straightforward as a vasectomy.

Almost any doctor can perform a vasectomy, a short and relatively simple surgery that requires minimal training. However, a correctly performed vasectomy reversal is an advanced, technically challenging microsurgery lasting two to three hours. You should only trust an expert microsurgeon with years of successful reversals to increase the chance of success and lower the risk of complications.

Myth: All vasectomy reversals have the same chance of success.

Talk to your surgeon about what could affect the success of your surgery before deciding to have a vasectomy reversal. Factors may include:

• Sperm count and mobility
• Any development of anti-sperm antibodies
• Scar tissue following surgery
• Fertility of your female partner
• Length of time since your vasectomy

Myth: A vasectomy reversal must be performed within 10 years to have any chance of success.

If you had your vasectomy less than five years ago, there is a greater than 95 percent chance of sperm in the ejaculate. Surgeries performed five to 10 years ago have about a 90 percent chance, and if 10 or more years have elapsed, there’s an 80 to 90 percent chance. Experienced surgeons can perform successful reversals over 20 years after a vasectomy. (Note: pregnancy rates are lower than the percentages given here and depend on numerous factors.)

Myth: Pursuing IVF is better than having a vasectomy reversal.

While in vitro fertilization is a viable infertility treatment, it should not be your first choice. IVF costs three to five times more than vasectomy reversal surgery, and it comes with serious risks to the mother and baby—all with no guarantee of a successful pregnancy. With the costs, risks, and success rates in mind, a reversal with natural conception makes more sense for most couples.

Myth: Some vasectomy methods are not reversible.

It is extremely rare for a vasectomy to be performed in such a way that a microsurgeon cannot reverse it. The only time this can happen is if the original surgeon removes too much of the vas deferens, the tube that transports sperm from the testes to the urethra. In this case, there is nothing to reattach, and the reversal cannot be done. Again, this is very uncommon and can be ruled out prior to surgery via a physical exam.

Dr. Joshua Green of the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is a leader in microscopic infertility procedures. If you have decided to pursue parenthood, we can help. Dr. Green has completed hundreds of vasectomy reversal surgeries and takes great pride in his remarkable success rates. We’ll discuss your surgical options, costs, and the chance of success based on your specific situation. To learn more, please call our Sarasota, FL clinic at 941-894-6428 or schedule a free consultation online.

Symptoms of Male Infertility

Fertility difficulties affect nearly one in seven couples who are trying to have a baby. “Infertility” is defined as the inability to conceive despite having frequent, unprotected intercourse for a year or longer. In up to half of all cases, male infertility is at least partially to blame. Consider what male infertility looks like and how you can combat it.

Causes of Male Infertility

Low fertility in men is a complex subject. In short, semen must contain enough healthy, functional sperm to produce a pregnancy. There are many possible reasons why this may not be the case, including:

• Varicocele (swelling of the veins that drain the testicle)
• Infections, including epididymitis, orchitis, gonorrhea, or HIV
• Retrograde ejaculation
• Dysfunctional immune cells that attack sperm
• Cancer and nonmalignant tumors
• Undescended testicles
• Hormone imbalances
• Tubule defects or blockages
• Chromosome defects
• Erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation
• Celiac disease
• Certain medications
• Vasectomy or other surgeries on the testicles, scrotum, or prostate
• Exposure to industrial chemicals, heavy metals, or radiation
• Overheated testicles
• Drug, tobacco, and alcohol use
• Obesity

Symptoms of Male Infertility

Apart from being unable to conceive a child, there may be no other indications that you are infertile. However, depending on the underlying cause, these additional symptoms may be present:

• Sexual dysfunction, such as difficulty maintaining an erection, limited ejaculation, or low sex drive
• Pain, swelling, or lump in the testicle area
• Abnormal breast growth (gynecomastia)
• Decreased facial or body hair

Treatments for Male Infertility

If you are struggling to get your partner pregnant, consider that simple lifestyle changes can make a difference. Here’s what to try first:

• Quit smoking, limit your alcohol use, and avoid illicit drugs.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Reduce your stress level.
• Steer clear of chemicals and other environmental hazards.
• Avoid tightly fitting underwear and jeans.
• Don’t take steroids for bodybuilding or sporting purposes.

More formal treatments for male infertility include:

• Surgery to correct obstructed tubules or reverse a prior vasectomy
• Antibiotic treatment for underlying infections
• Medication or counseling for erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation
• Hormone treatments and medications

One in eight male infertility cases are treatable, allowing couples to get pregnant naturally after receiving the proper care. If male infertility treatment doesn’t work, you may still be a candidate for assisted reproductive technology (ART). This involves collecting sperm to be inserted into the female reproductive system or used with in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Your doctor might also suggest considering a sperm donor or adopting a child.

Dr. Joshua Green of the Center for Vasectomy Reversal is a leader in helping men overcome infertility problems. All infertility procedures, including vasectomy reversal, are performed with state-of-the-art equipment, including a high-powered operating microscope. Patients can expect concierge-level care and friendly staff interactions every step of the way. To learn more, please call 941-894-6428 or schedule a free consultation online.

Things That Affect Male Fertility

The journey to parenthood is straightforward for many, but up to 15 percent of couples fail to conceive after a year of trying to get pregnant. Male infertility plays a role in over one-third of these cases. Consider the factors that affect male fertility and what you can do to improve your chances of conceiving a child with your partner.

Causes of Male Infertility

You could have trouble getting your partner pregnant if you have any of the following:

• Low sperm count
• Abnormal sperm function
• Blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm
• Low testosterone levels

What Affects Male Fertility?

The following factors play a role in your sperm count, function, delivery, and testosterone levels:

• Varicocele: Having enlarged veins within the scrotum is the most common reversible cause of male infertility.
• Infection: Some infections interfere with sperm health or production, including several STDs, such as gonorrhea, Chlamydia, and HIV.
• Substance use: Drugs, alcohol, and tobacco can lower testosterone levels and sperm count.
• Overall health: Being overweight or having high blood pressure may reduce fertility. Other medical causes include undescended testicles, tumors, hormone imbalances, chromosome defects, and untreated celiac disease.
• Ejaculation issues: Various conditions may prevent proper ejaculation, including diabetes, spinal cord injuries, medications, and surgery of the bladder, urethra, or prostate.
• Environmental factors: Overexposure to heat, radiation, heavy metals, and industrial chemicals may reduce sperm count or function. Even prolonged biking, horseback riding, or physically demanding work can affect fertility.
• Emotional factors: High stress may interfere with hormones needed to produce sperm. Depression can also cause sexual dysfunction that can cause male fertility issues.

How to Improve Male Fertility

Being unable to conceive a child can be frustrating and stressful. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to improve your fertility:

• Receive treatment for underlying medical conditions.
• Talk to your doctor about switching medications if infertility is a side effect of anything you’re currently taking.
• Consider the changes you can make to reduce physical strain at work and in your daily life.
• Wear boxers, not briefs, to avoid elevated temperatures and tightness that could affect sperm count.
• Adopt stress management techniques, such as meditation, aromatherapy, yoga, and breathing exercises.
• Examine your lifestyle. If you use substances or are overweight, improving your health may increase your fertility.
• Schedule a doctor visit to check your fertility, especially if you experience sexual dysfunction, pain or swelling in the testicle area, abnormal breast growth, or hormonal irregularities along with fertility issues.

Did you previously have a vasectomy, but now you’re ready to start or grow your family? Dr. Joshua Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal can make your dream of fatherhood a reality. We provide state-of-the-art treatment for men looking to reverse a vasectomy or address other fertility concerns. To learn more, please call our Sarasota, FL clinic at 941-894-6428 or schedule a free consultation through our website.