Is IVF Possible With Male Infertility?
Scientifically, infertility is not a gendered issue. Both men and women can face reproductive issues that make natural conception difficult. In a recent study of heterosexual couples, men were the sole partner experiencing infertility in 33% of cases. Meanwhile, another third of cases are due to issues found in both partners. Assistive reproductive technologies (ART) can help couples start or expand a family. One of the most popular fertility treatments is in vitro fertilization (IVF). Although most people are aware of cycle adjustments designed to boost fertility in women, several changes may be incorporated to address male infertility.
When varicocele is present
Varicocele is a common condition affecting roughly 15% of adult men. Faulty valves in the veins found in the groin cause blood to pool in the testicles. The additional liquid raises testicular temperature, which is a problem since sperm production is hampered when the area is hotter. Normally, the testes are usually around 3 degrees cooler. This condition can be corrected through a procedure known as a varicocelectomy. Research has shown that men who have the surgery can improve conception rates by up to 70%. However, this treatment will be performed before starting an IVF cycle.
Managing sperm retrieval
For IVF, the most important step that involves a man is sperm retrieval. Traditionally, a sample is collected through natural ejaculation. However, some men are unable to achieve an erection or have blockages preventing sperm from exiting the body. For these individuals, specialized procedures can be performed to extract semen. Two popular options are testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) and percutaneous epididymal sperm aspiration (PESA). Both processes collect sperm, but the methodologies are different. TESA is essentially a biopsy that removes a sample of testicular tissue, while PESA uses a needle to extract semen directly from the scrotum.
Adjusting for sperm quality
Sperm quality or quantity is the primary issue for male factor infertility. Slow-moving sperm are less likely to reach an egg in natural conception, while poor quality can manifest as embryos that don’t implant or survive through a full-term pregnancy. If a semen sample is especially subpar, a couple might be encouraged to consider donor samples instead.
Overcoming motility issues
Like quality, motility is another major issue that can impact conception. During standard IVF, fertilization occurs outside of the body, which significantly reduces the distance a sperm must travel to reach the egg. However, the step can be further adjusted by a process known as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). This method uses specialized tools to directly insert sperm into an egg.
Male hormone supplementation
IVF is most closely associated with hormone supplementation, especially for women. Historically, women have taken medication to boost ovulation so that multiple eggs can be collected during the egg retrieval step. Yet, in men with male factor infertility, if sperm quality is the issue, a fertility specialist might also prescribe hormone treatments to improve sperm production.
Finding a solution
Modern medicine and fertility innovations have expanded the potential for parenthood to a wider range of people. Infertility isn’t just a woman’s issue, as men can also be impacted. Knowing that adaptations or treatments are available to help a man participate in the conception process is important. Having male factor infertility doesn’t mean pregnancy is impossible.
