Male Factor Infertility

Male-Factor

Understanding Male Factor Infertility

Male factor infertility contributes to 40–50% of all cases where couples have difficulty conceiving.
In many situations, male infertility is treatable, and early evaluation makes a significant difference.

At Saga Clinic Tirana, Dr. Eser Agar conducts a structured and detailed assessment to identify the underlying cause and guide the couple toward the most effective fertility strategy.


Common Causes of Male Infertility

1. Semen Abnormalities

Changes in sperm parameters are the most common cause:

  • Low sperm count
  • Poor motility
  • Abnormal morphology
  • Low semen volume
  • High sperm DNA fragmentation

Even mild abnormalities can reduce the chance of natural conception.


2. Hormonal Disorders

Hormones regulate sperm production. Imbalances may include:

  • Low testosterone
  • High prolactin
  • Thyroid dysfunction
  • Pituitary gland disorders

Correcting these can significantly improve fertility.


3. Varicocele

Dilated veins around the testicle can impair sperm quality.
This is one of the most treatable causes and may require surgical correction in select cases.


4. Structural or Obstructive Problems

  • Blocked vas deferens
  • Congenital absence of vas deferens
  • Previous genital surgery
  • Testicular injury
  • Infection-related scarring

These conditions may require surgical or assisted reproductive solutions.


5. Genetic Causes

Some men carry genetic conditions that affect sperm production:

  • Y-chromosome microdeletions
  • Karyotype abnormalities
  • Cystic fibrosis gene mutations

Genetic testing may be necessary in severe cases.


6. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors

  • Smoking
  • Excessive alcohol
  • Drug use
  • Heat exposure (sauna, laptops)
  • Obesity
  • Stress

Adjusting these factors can improve natural fertility.


How Male Infertility Is Diagnosed at Saga Clinic

1. Semen Analysis

The cornerstone of male evaluation, assessing:

  • Count
  • Motility
  • Morphology
  • Vitality
  • Signs of infection

A repeat test may be needed for accuracy.


2. Hormonal Testing

Analyzing:

  • FSH, LH
  • Total & free testosterone
  • Prolactin
  • Thyroid hormones

This identifies correctable endocrine issues.


3. Scrotal Ultrasound

Used to evaluate:

  • Varicocele
  • Testicular size and volume
  • Obstructions
  • Cysts or structural abnormalities

4. Genetic Testing (If Indicated)

Recommended when sperm count is extremely low:

  • Karyotype
  • Y-chromosome microdeletion
  • CFTR mutation panel

5. Additional Tests

  • Sperm DNA fragmentation
  • STI screening
  • Semen culture

Treatment Options for Male Infertility

Lifestyle Optimization

  • Smoking cessation
  • Weight loss
  • Reducing heat exposure
  • Improving diet and exercise
  • Vitamins and antioxidants

These can significantly improve sperm quality.


Medical Treatment

  • Hormonal therapy
  • Treatment of infection
  • Correction of metabolic conditions
  • Prolactin or thyroid management

Surgical Treatments

  • Varicocelectomy
  • Vasectomy reversal
  • Correction of obstructions

These are used only in appropriate cases.


Assisted Reproductive Techniques

When natural fertility cannot be restored:

  • IUI (for mild male factor)
  • IVF
  • ICSI (direct sperm injection, ideal for severe male factor)
  • TESE / Micro-TESE sperm retrieval

Even in very low sperm count cases, pregnancy is possible with ICSI.


Why Choose Saga Clinic for Male Infertility?

  • Comprehensive diagnostic approach
  • Collaboration with advanced laboratories
  • Personalized treatment plans
  • Modern ultrasound and hormonal evaluation
  • Clear communication and supportive care
  • Expert guidance by Dr. Eser Agar

Our goal is to address male infertility efficiently and compassionately.


Appointments

If you suspect male factor infertility or want a complete evaluation, we are here to help.
Contact Saga Clinic Tirana for an appointment.


Contact

For appointment requests or medical inquiries, please contact us using the options below.

📞 Clinic Phone (Office Hours)
+355 69 836 1565
Available Monday–Saturday, 09:00–16:00.

💬 WhatsApp (Outside Office Hours)
+355 69 362 0838
Available outside office hours via WhatsApp Message only.