Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)
Fewer sperm than normal in the semen.
Urology & Andrology
We are here to provide caring and expert support for male reproductive and urinary health. Our specialized team uses advanced diagnostics and personalized treatments to help you with a wide range of urological and andrological issues.
What is Urology?
Urology focuses on diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases of the urinary tract and male reproductive organs. This includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, as well as the adrenal glands and male reproductive organs like the testes, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, prostate, and penis. We care for both men and women with these issues.
What is Andrology?
Andrology is a branch of urology that specifically looks after male reproductive health. This includes male fertility problems, sexual dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and other conditions affecting the male reproductive system. Our andrologists are here to help with issues like erectile dysfunction, infertility, testicular disorders, and low testosterone levels.
What Are the Most Common Male Fertility Issues?
Common male fertility problems include:
Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenozoospermia)
Sperm that don’t swim well, making it harder to reach and fertilize an egg.
Abnormal Sperm Morphology (Teratozoospermia)
A high percentage of abnormally shaped sperm, which can hinder fertilization.
Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Trouble achieving or maintaining an erection sufficient for sexual activity.
Azoospermia
No sperm in the ejaculate, often due to blockages or problems with sperm production.
Varicocele
Enlarged veins in the scrotum that can affect sperm production and quality.
Hormonal Imbalances
Issues like hypogonadism, where the body doesn’t produce enough sex hormones, affecting fertility.
Genetic Disorders
Conditions like Klinefelter syndrome that impact sperm production and quality.
Infections
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or other infections that can damage the reproductive system.
Testicular Conditions
Problems like undescended testes or testicular injury that affect sperm production.
What Factors Can Affect Male Fertility?
Male fertility can be affected by various factors, including:
Lifestyle Choices
Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use can harm sperm quality and quantity.
Environmental Factors
Exposure to toxins, chemicals, and radiation can damage sperm production and function.
Medical Conditions
Chronic illnesses such as diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and infections (or different drugs used for their treatment) can impact fertility.
Hormonal Imbalances
Abnormal hormone levels can affect sperm production.
Age
Sperm quality tends to decline as men age, reducing fertility.
Heat Exposure
Frequent exposure to high temperatures, like hot tubs or tight clothing, and activities like cycling and excessive driving can impair sperm production.
Diet and Nutrition
Poor diet and lack of essential nutrients can affect sperm health.
Stress
High levels of stress can interfere with hormone production and sexual function.
FAQs about Urology & Andrology
Everything you need to know about Urology & Andrology
Can abnormal sperm be reversed?
Yes, abnormal sperm can often be improved or reversed. Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, exercise, avoiding toxins), medical treatments (medications, hormonal therapy), and lifestyle adjustments (avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol) can help.
How long does it take after improving my lifestyle to see improvements in my sperm count and morphology?
Improvements in sperm count and morphology can typically be observed within 2 to 3 months after making positive lifestyle changes. This timeframe corresponds to the sperm production cycle, which takes about 74 days. Consistent healthy habits during this period are crucial for noticeable improvements.
Is the varicocel treatable?
Yes, varicocele is treatable. Treatment options include:
- Surgery (Varicocelectomy): The most common treatment, where the enlarged veins are tied off to redirect blood flow to normal veins.
- Embolization: A minimally invasive procedure where a coil or a solution is inserted into the vein to block it.
- Lifestyle Changes and Supportive Measures: Wearing supportive underwear and avoiding activities that increase abdominal pressure.
These treatments can help alleviate symptoms and improve fertility.
What is the treatment in severe sperm modification?
Treatment for severe sperm abnormalities includes:
- Medications: Hormonal treatments and antioxidants.
- Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): IUI, IVF, and ICSI.
- Lifestyle Changes: Healthy diet, exercise, and avoiding toxins.
- Surgery: Varicocelectomy and repair of obstructions.
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