Infertility is a health problem that affects millions of couples worldwide and can develop due to many different factors. Infertility, which can be seen in both men and women, is a treatable condition thanks to modern medicine. Methods such as IVF and vaccination are among the solutions frequently used in infertility treatment. In this article, we will discuss in detail how infertility treatment takes place, the methods used and how the treatment process progresses.
How is Infertility Diagnosed in Men?
Infertility in men is usually caused by problems with sperm count, quality or motility. This can lead to difficulty in conceiving a child. A series of tests and examinations are carried out to diagnose infertility in men. The first step is usually to consult a urologist and have a thorough evaluation.
1. Sperm Analysis (Spermogram)
The most basic test for diagnosing infertility in men is sperm analysis. This test, called a spermogram, evaluates sperm count, motility, deformities and the pH level of the fluid. Normally, the sperm count is expected to be above 15 million sperm per milliliter and sperm motility is expected to be adequate.
2. Hormone Tests
Men can also have hormonal imbalances that can cause infertility. Levels of testosterone and other reproductive hormones can affect sperm production. Hormone tests therefore play an important role in the diagnosis of inferti
3. Genetic Tests
Sometimes infertility can be caused by genetic factors. In particular, genetic diseases that affect sperm production can lead to male infertility. Genetic tests are done to determine if there is a hereditary cause of infertil
4. Ultrasonography
Ultrasound is used to see structural problems of the reproductive organs in men. Vascular enlargement such as varicocele, masses in the testicles or other abnormalities can be detected by ultrasound.
5. Sperm DNA Damage Test
The sperm DNA damage test is a test that examines whether there is a breakdown in the genetic material of sperm. Damage to sperm DNA can lead to low successful pregnancy rates and early pregnancy loss.
Infertility in men can be diagnosed with a comprehensive evaluation and accurate tests. These tests performed before starting the treatment process are very important in determining the appropriate treatment method
Surgeries for Male Infertility
In some cases, male infertility can be treated surgically. Problems that cause infertility include varicocele, blockages or structural abnormalities that can be corrected surgically. The surgeries usually aim to improve sperm production and transport functions to increase the chances of having a child. Here are the main surgical interventions applied in male infertility:
1. Varicocele Surgery
Varicocele is a condition caused by dilated veins in the testicles and is a common cause of male infertility. These dilated veins can negatively affect sperm production. Varicocele surgery ligates these veins to regulate blood flow and increase sperm production. This operation, usually performed with minimally invasive techniques, is a treatment option with a high success rate.
2. Obstruction Removal (Vasectomy Reversal)
The blockage can occur in any part of the sperm pathway (such as the vas deferens, epididymis) and can prevent sperm from coming out. This type of blockage is an important cause of male infertility. Surgeries such as vasectomy reversal or epididymal sperm aspiration can remove the blockage and restore sperm production. This type of surgery is sometimes performed using microsurgical techniques.
3. Micro Tese (Micro TESE)
Micro TESE is a surgical procedure for men who do not produce sperm but have sperm in their testicles. This procedure uses microsurgical methods to extract sperm from the testicles. Once sperm is found, it can be used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. It is a particularly promising option for azoospermic (sperm-absent) men.
4. Epidididymal Sperm Aspiration (MESA)
Epidididymal sperm aspiration (MESA) is a procedure used in men who have blocked sperm ducts and cannot get sperm naturally. In this procedure, sperm is extracted directly from the epididymis (sperm accumulation site) and used for IVF treatment.
5. Testicular Sperm Aspiration (TESA)
Testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) is a surgical intervention that allows sperm to be removed directly from the testicles. This procedure is often performed as an alternative to micro TESE. Sperm is extracted directly from the testicular tissue and can be used in fertility treatment. TESA offers a particularly effective solution for men with little or no sperm production.
6. Microsurgical Infertility Treatment
Microsurgery, a more delicate and low-risk surgical procedure, is used to correct problems with sperm production or transport. In such interventions, a microscope is used to repair the sperm ducts and, if possible, collect sperm. Microsurgical treatments are less invasive options that increase success rates.
Surgical treatment for male infertility differs depending on the source of the problem. Such surgeries can increase men's chances of having children with the right diagnosis and treatment methods determined by specialist doctors.
How is Infertility Treatment / Surgery Performed?
Infertility treatment aims to increase the couple's chances of having a child with various treatment methods for reproductive health. Infertility treatment can be performed with both medication and surgical interventions. Infertility surgeries are especially applied to individuals with sperm production or transportation problems in men. Infertility treatment and surgery are usually carried out in line with a personalized treatment plan. Here are the details on how this process progresses:
1. The Process Leading to Infertility Surgery
Before starting infertility treatment, the first step is usually a thorough evaluation of both the male and female partner. A specialist physician evaluates the medical history, physical examination and necessary test results of both partners and creates a treatment plan. If infertility in men is diagnosed, it is decided whether surgical intervention is necessary.
2. Varicocele Surgery
Varicocele is one of the most common causes of infertility in men and is caused by dilated veins in the testicles. This can negatively affect sperm production. Varicocele surgery allows the veins in the testicle to be ligated to improve blood flow. This operation is usually performed with minimally invasive techniques and is performed under local anesthesia. After surgery, patients can return to their normal activities within a few days.
3. Vasectomy Reversal
A vasectomy is a procedure to permanently restore infertility in men. However, some men may want to have children after a vasectomy. Vasectomy reversal surgery is the process of reconnecting the sperm ducts after a vasectomy. This surgical intervention is performed under a microscope and very precisely. The success rate depends on the time taken and the skill of the surgical technique.
4. Micro TESE (Micro Testicular Sperm Aspiration)
Micro TESE is a surgical procedure for men who do not produce sperm but have sperm in their testicles. In this surgical intervention, testicular tissue is examined under a microscope and sperm is detected. The sperm found is removed for use in in vitro fertilization treatment. Micro TESE offers a promising solution, especially for men with azoospermia (absence of sperm).
5. Removing Sperm Tract Obstructions
In men, blockages in the sperm ducts can cause infertility. These blockages can be caused by genetic diseases, infections or congenital abnormalities. These blockages can be surgically removed and the sperm ducts can be reconstructed. Obstruction removal operations are performed with microsurgical methods with high success rates.
6. Sperm Collection from the Testicles (TESA and MESA)
Sperm removal from the testicles are other surgical procedures used to treat infertility in men. Testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) and epididymal sperm aspiration (MESA) are performed when sperm production is present but the sperm pathways are blocked. In these procedures, sperm can be taken directly from the testicles or epididymis and used for IVF treatment.
7. The Healing Process
The recovery process of patients after infertility surgeries is usually fast. However, a certain rest period may be required after each surgical intervention. While patients can return to their normal lives within a few days after minimally invasive operations such as varicocele, the recovery process may take a little longer after microsurgical procedures and more complex surgeries. Following the doctor's recommendations will increase the success rate of the treatment process.
Infertility treatment and surgeries require a customized approach based on the needs of each individual. As a result of comprehensive evaluations and tests with a specialist physician, the right treatment method is determined and the chances of couples having children are increa
What are the Advantages of Infertility Treatment / Surgery?
Infertility treatment and surgical interventions are an important step towards having a child for many couples. Especially surgical methods offer effective solutions for individuals who do not respond to medical treatment or have structural problems. Infertility surgeries have many advantages and these advantages can make the treatment process more promising. Here are the main advantages of infertility treatment and surgery:
1. Increases the Chance of Natural Pregnancy
Infertility surgeries usually provide a solution by targeting the source of the problem. For example, varicocele surgery corrects enlarged veins that impair sperm production and improves sperm quality. As a result, the chances of a natural pregnancy increase. Surgical interventions such as decongestion and sperm collection can also increase the chances of pregnancy by removing obstacles in the sperm pathways.
2. Reduces the Need for Advanced Treatment Methods
For some couples, surgical treatment can reduce the need for further treatment such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). Infertility surgeries can eliminate sperm production or transport problems, which can make IVF unnecessary or achieve successful results with fewer interventions. Especially microsurgical surgeries contribute to a more efficient IVF treatment by successfully performing the sperm collection process.
3. Lower Cost Solutions
Advanced treatments, especially in vitro fertilization, can often be expensive. Infertility surgeries can, in some cases, eliminate the need for such costly treatments. Surgical interventions, although requiring an initial investment, can offer more cost-effective solutions in the long run, as the chances of natural pregnancy increase and expensive procedures such as IVF may be less necessary.
4. Less Medication
Some infertility treatment methods may require intensive medication. For example, hormone therapies are often used before in vitro fertilization. However, surgical interventions can minimize the use of medication by solving the problems directly. This reduces side effects and allows the treatment process to proceed more smoothly.
5. Short Recovery Period
Modern surgical procedures are performed with minimally invasive techniques, speeding up the patient's recovery process. Varicocele and other IVF-related surgical interventions usually result in a short recovery and patients can return to their normal lives within a few days. This makes it easier to continue the treatment process without disrupting work and daily life.
Who Is Infertility Treatment / Surgery Recommended?
Infertility treatment and surgeries are recommended for individuals with certain health problems. In particular, these methods are preferred in cases that do not respond to medical treatment methods or require surgical intervention. Infertility surgeries target specific causes of male infertility such as varicocele, sperm tract obstruction, azoospermia.
Men with varicocele problems may be offered varicocele surgery to correct vascular enlargement in the testicles. This surgery can increase sperm production and improve the chances of a natural pregnancy. In men with sperm tract obstruction, surgery can be performed to remove the obstruction. After the obstruction is opened, sperm can be released and the chance of having a child can be achieved.
