Azoospermia

For couples struggling to conceive, Joshua J. Berger MD, PhD and Mark Rispler MD understand how frustrating and disappointing it can be. At Innovative Fertility Center, our entire team is committed to helping our patients start and grow their families. We offer advanced medical care, which includes diagnosing and treating male factor infertility related to azoospermia.

What is azoospermia?

Approximately 10% of men struggling with male factor infertility, and 1% of all men, will receive a diagnosis of azoospermia. This means there are no sperm in the ejaculate.

Because this condition does not present with any symptoms, most men have no idea they have this issue until they are trying to start a family. As part of a complete fertility assessment, our Manhattan Beach fertility doctors will order a semen analysis to rule out any potential issues or abnormalities.

Understanding the common causes of this issue

With azoospermia, patients can experience one of two types: obstructive or non-obstructive. The obstructive form involves issues related to a blockage. In contrast, the non-obstructive type relates to low sperm production.

In addition to determining the type, our doctors will also identify what’s causing the problem.

When the problem is pretesticular, it means a man has normal testicles, but they do not produce sperm. Typically, this is due to low hormone levels or chemotherapy.

In cases where the issue is testicular, damage to the testicles hinders normal sperm production. Some examples include groin injury, cancer treatment, infections and certain genetic disorders.

With post-testicular causes, the body produces normal sperm but does not release them. Tubal blockages, a vasectomy and retrograde ejaculation are some examples.

Our doctors offer several infertility treatments to address this problem

If a semen analysis reveals abnormalities that could indicate male factor infertility related to azoospermia, our doctors will make a referral to a urologist for further testing. Urologists are specially trained in the male reproductive system.

Treatment will vary depending on what’s causing the issue. For those with blockages, surgery can often correct the problem. Sperm retrieval combined with IVF may provide the best option for those with the non-obstructive form of this condition or individuals who don’t want surgery.

Trying to have a baby and not getting results can be discouraging. Our Manhattan Beach fertility doctors can identify the common causes of male factor infertility. Contact our office to schedule an appointment for a full fertility evaluation.