Introduction
Male infertility is a significant global health issue, contributing to approximately half of infertility cases among couples. Despite its prevalence, male infertility is often overlooked or inadequately investigated. Andrology provides a scientific and clinical framework for understanding the underlying causes and developing effective treatment strategies.
Causes of Male Infertility
Male infertility may arise from pre-testicular, testicular, or post-testicular factors. Common causes include hormonal imbalances, genetic abnormalities, varicocele, infections, trauma, environmental toxins, and lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, and chronic stress.
Sperm abnormalities involving count, motility, morphology, and DNA integrity are central to fertility assessment.
Diagnostic Evaluation
Andrological assessment begins with a detailed medical and reproductive history, followed by physical examination. Semen analysis remains the primary diagnostic tool, often complemented by hormonal testing, erotic sense evaluation, scrotal ultrasonography, genetic screening, and advanced sperm function tests.
Treatment Approaches
Treatment is individualized and may involve medical therapy, surgical correction, lifestyle modification, or assisted reproductive technologies. Andrology emphasizes addressing the root cause whenever possible to restore natural fertility.
Conclusion
Male infertility is a multifactorial condition requiring specialized expertise. Andrology provides evidence-based diagnostic and therapeutic solutions that improve reproductive outcomes and psychological well-being.