Fertility Treatment for Men with Low Sperm Count
At Heartland Center for Reproductive Medicine, PC, we have a team of experienced fertility specialists who are eager to help couples find solutions for infertility problems. Our specialists understand that each situation is unique, so diagnosis is often the first step in fertility treatment. By diagnosing the most likely cause of infertility, we can best assist our patients on their journey to parenthood. This includes examining the reproductive systems of both our male and female patients. We have an andrology laboratory dedicated to testing male reproductive health. One problem that can greatly impact a male’s fertility is sperm count, which refers to the total number of sperm in a sample of ejaculate. Fortunately, even men with low sperm count should be able to conceive with the help of our fertility services. We offer treatment for low sperm count that allows many of our Omaha, NE patients to overcome this fertility obstacle.
Treating Low Sperm Count
It can be disappointing for a man to learn that he suffers from low sperm count. However, discovering this problem is the first step in solving it. There are actually several treatment options that are available to men experiencing low sperm count. Our doctors will help each patient find a solution that is right for them based on their unique situation, as well as their personal preferences. Below are some common treatments for low sperm count:
- Intrauterine insemination: This is an assisted reproductive treatment that allows our doctors to get the most concentrated sample of sperm. After collecting a semen sample, “washed” sperm (that which has been separated from the semen) is inserted into the cervix or high in the uterine cavity. Because only the most useful and mobile sperm are injected, sperm count is not as important in the success of this treatment.
- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection: When sperm count is very low, intracytoplasmic sperm injection may be the most appropriate treatment option. This technique involves inserting just a single sperm directly into a mature egg. If fertilization is a success, the fertilized egg can be used for any of our assisted reproductive treatments, including IVF and tubal embryo transfer.
- Sperm donor: When other treatments have proven ineffective, a sperm donor may be used in lieu of collecting sperm from the male partner. While some patients may not find this ideal, it is an option for couples to consider.
Additional Treatments
Assisted reproductive treatment is the most common approach to low sperm count, but some men may have other options as well. While not as common, the following treatments may be considered in treating certain cases of low sperm count:
- Male fertility drugs: In very specific cases, male fertility drugs may prove successful in increasing sperm count. These fertility drugs are an option for men whose low sperm count is due to a hormonal imbalance that prevents the testicles from receiving the signal to produce sperm. Male fertility drugs are usually provided in the form of injections and often require a series of two to three injections a week for a span of six months.
- Surgery: Surgery is another option in certain cases of low sperm count. If low sperm count is a result of problems related to varicocele, an enlargement of the veins in the testicles. Through surgery, varicocele can be corrected and, studies suggest, can prove effective in increasing male sperm count.
Schedule an Appointment
Fertility problems can be a barrier standing between you and your dream of becoming a parent, but at Heartland Center for Reproductive Medicine, PC, we are here to help you knock that barrier down. To learn more about our comprehensive range of fertility treatments, schedule an appointment with one of our experienced fertility specialists at your earliest convenience.
