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Infertility Treatment Options for the Male Patient
- Timing of normal intercourse
- Treatment of abnormal sperm production or function
- Treatment for hormonal problems
Timing of Normal Intercourse
An egg can be fertilized for up to 24 hours after a woman ovulates, and sperm can survive in the woman's reproductive tract for up to 72 hours. Increasing the frequency of intercourse during the appropriate time within a woman's cycle may increase the chances for conception.
Treatment for Abnormal Sperm Production or Function
If the source of your infertility is an abnormal production of sperm, it may be possible to restore or initiate fertility. For example, you can be treated with hormone replacement therapy if you have low testosterone. If you have a varicocele, it can be corrected surgically and in some instances may restore fertility. An infection, such as a sexually transmitted disease, in your reproductive system can hamper sperm production, and may be corrected with antibiotics. Problems with your testicles, prostate gland, seminal vesicle and urethra also can be treated.
Treatment for Hormonal Problems
The cause of your infertility may be a problem with the hormones-LH and FSH-released by your pituitary gland that stimulate the production of testosterone and sperm in your testes. Your doctor, then, may recommend a medication to replace or help boost the production of these hormones. These medications include Novarel®, Pregnyl®, Profasi®, and Repronex®. If you are not able to produce testosterone, even with hormonal stimulation, your doctor may recommend that you use a testosterone supplement. Recently, a testosterone skin gel has become available (Androgel®).