Study and treatment of male fertility
Andrology is the medical specialty that deals with the study, diagnosis, and treatment of disorders of the male reproductive system and male fertility.
At Institut Marquès, we have a team of specialists who work in close coordination with assisted reproduction units to offer a comprehensive and accurate diagnosis in every case.
The clinical significance lies in the fact that male factors are present in approximately 50% of infertility cases, either as the sole cause or in conjunction with female factors.
Therefore, evaluating male fertility is essential before initiating any assisted reproductive treatment.
The objectives of the andrological study of the infertile male are:
To detect anatomical, hormonal, infectious, genetic alterations or lifestyle habits that can be corrected to improve fertility.
Evaluate whether the patient can benefit from procedures such as IVF, ICSI, or surgical sperm retrieval techniques.
Some causes of infertility may be related to systemic or endocrine diseases that require medical attention.
Assess the risk of transmitting genetic diseases to offspring and consider options such as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).
In cases of irreversible infertility, the use of donor sperm may be considered.
Such as a history of cryptorchidism, varicocele, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, pelvic surgery, among others.
The andrological study of the infertile man consists of:
Collection of personal and family medical, surgical, and reproductive history. Assessment of lifestyle habits (tobacco, alcohol, stress, etc.).
Examination of the genital tract to detect congenital or acquired abnormalities of the testicles (cryptorchidism, hypogonadism, varicocele, hydrocele, testicular tumors, etc.) or the penis (hypospadias, epispadias, etc.). General examination to identify signs of hypogonadism or hormonal imbalances (gynecomastia, hair distribution, etc.).
This is the basic test for evaluating male fertility. It analyzes parameters such as:
In clinical interpretation, these criteria allow for the identification of abnormalities such as oligozoospermia (low sperm count), asthenozoospermia (low sperm motility), teratozoospermia (low sperm morphology), and combinations thereof, or azoospermia (absence of sperm), which guides the diagnosis and management of infertility.
Depending on the semen analysis, other diagnostic tests may be necessary, such as:
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
The andrology laboratory works closely with the embryology laboratory to:
Select the highest quality sperm.
Apply advanced sperm selection techniques.
Improve fertilization and embryo development.
This collaborative work is key to increasing success rates in treatments such as IVF and ICSI.
If pregnancy has not been achieved after one year of unprotected intercourse, or if there is a medical history or known abnormalities.
Yes, factors such as tobacco, alcohol, being overweight, obesity, or stress can significantly affect male fertility.
It depends on the cause of the problem. In some cases, yes, with lifestyle changes, supplements, and specific medical treatment.
Not necessarily. A semen analysis only indicates whether the chances of natural conception are normal or reduced. Many abnormalities can be corrected using assisted reproductive technologies.
Yes, it is performed with local anesthesia and/or sedation, and allows sperm recovery even in cases of azoospermia.
At Institut Marquès, we offer comprehensive andrology services with advanced diagnostics, personalized treatments, and a specialized male fertility laboratory.
Request your first free consultation and learn about the options available to improve your fertility or that of your partner.
