Fertility problems in men

Around 30 percent of all cases of infertility in reproductive-age couples in the United States are related to male fertility problems. These are some of the common fertility problems in men.

Blockages

A blockage in the ejaculatory duct obstructs the sperm from reaching the ejaculate fluid. An obstruction in the vas deferens or epididymis tubes hampers the union of the sperm with the egg. Such blockages could be the result of:

• Injury
• Infection
• Congenital disorder
• Vasectomy

Blockages in the vas deferens or epididymis tubes may be diagnosed by a doctor. Surgical intervention is usually required to clear the blockages.

Irregular sperm

An inadequate quantity of sperm, poor motility (ability to move), or sperm that is abnormally shaped, will not be in a position to fertilize the female egg. The problem is usually treated with medication. Artificial insemination or intracytoplasmic sperm injections (ICSI) are other options to treat infertility due to irregular sperm.

Varicocele

Varicocele refers to an enlargement of the veins in the male scrotum. This raises the temperature in the testicles, and hampers the production of the sperm. Varicocele can be treated with surgery.