Far too often, the investigation of male fertility is limited to semen analysis alone. Current methods make it possible to investigate male fertility and its disorders much more thoroughly. At best, the problem can be solved so that no other treatment is needed to achieve pregnancy. Of course, in a significant proportion of cases, despite the appropriate evaluation the cause of reduced male fertility remains unclear.
Andrology is a medical specialty that focuses on the study, diagnosis and treatment of male reproductive and sexual health.
Important areas include
- Male fertility problems (poor quality semen, complete absence of sperm, elevated sperm DNA fragmentation, complete absence of sperm in semen)
- Hormonal disorders (abnormalities in testicular hormone function)
- Health challenges related to male aging (e.g. so-called andropause)
- Erectile dysfunction
Andrology is a field of medicine that falls somewhat in between several specialities.
At Ovumia Andrology, we are happy to provide advice on issues related to reproduction and hormonal function in particular and offer diagnostic and treatment options. In the case of diseases of the genital organs (e.g. prostate hyperplasia and urination problems), assessment by a urologist is the primary option.
If you are troubled or concerned by any of the following, please contact the Ovumia clinic and we will discuss your andrological issue individually and, of course, in complete confidentiality.
- male infertility (low sperm count or complete absence of sperm)
- infertility after testosterone therapy (or problems caused by anabolic androgens)
- suspected testosterone deficiency (andropause)
- varicocele and its possible effect on fertility
- desire to get pregnant after male sterilization
- genetic syndromes that impair testicular function (Klinefelter syndrome, other male chromosomal disorders)
- sperm DNA fragmentation and state-of-the-art sperm selection using the ZyMot method (microfluiditics method).
Don’t know where to start?
Appointment with an Andrologist – what to expect?
The doctor (andrologist) will carefully review your medical history (the questionnaire you filled out above) and any previous treatments and surgeries you may have received, as well as any medications, nutritional supplements and other products you are currently taking (such as those that prevent hair loss and treatments for prostate problems). Possible symptoms related to reproductive functions (erection, intercourse, ejaculation) will be considered.
The actual andrological examination focuses largely on assessing the testicles and the regulation of their function. The doctor will carefully palpate the size of the testicles and the condition of the structures surrounding them (episodes, varicocele, spermatic cords). If the semen quality is very poor (sperm density <3 million/ml) or the semen quality has deteriorated rapidly, it is appropriate to rule out testicular tumors. This is easily and reliably done with an ultrasound scan during the appointment. Examinations performed at an andrology clinic do not normally cause significant pain, so there is no need to be afraid of the examination.
It is common to request further tests which include hormone measurements from a blood sample, and the need for a sperm DNA fragmentation test can be discussed. When the quality of the semen is particularly poor, it is justified to try to find out the possible hereditary background of the problem (chromosomal analysis and Y chromosome microdeletion test). Sometimes, in addition to hormone tests, it is appropriate to investigate the function of the pituitary gland using pituitary imaging (MRI).
How do I prepare for an appointment with an andrologist?
The result of a recent (preferably no more than a year old) semen analysis should always be available when assessing fertility. An abnormal finding is often confirmed with a new analysis. It is a good idea to bring along any previous tests and their results in order to avoid unnecessary repeat testing (hormone tests, genetic tests, ultrasound and other possible imaging test results). If you have been asked to have hormone tests done prior to your appointment, you should have them done well in advance (at least a week in advance) so that the results are available to the doctor at the appointment.
If your doctor prescribes hormone tests, you should know that the testosterone sample must be taken in the morning before 10 am and you should not eat breakfast beforehand. You should be awake for at least 2 hours before the prolactin sample is taken, and you should also avoid physical exertion. Sexual intercourse also increases prolactin levels in men, so sexual intercourse should not be done in the last 12 hours before the sample is taken.
The results of the prescribed tests can usually be discussed over the phone, and a treatment plan will be made at the same time.
Any questions?