What Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility refers to a man's inability to contribute to conception with a fertile female. Male infertility accounts for almost half of infertility cases. Addressing both male and female infertility simultaneously is crucial for modern infertility care, and at the Center for Human Reproduction (CHR), about 20% of couples experience male factor infertility or a combination of male and female factors. Dr. Norbert Gleicher and Dr. David H. Barad lead CHR in providing comprehensive infertility care that effectively evaluates and treats both male and female infertility.
At CHR, we have the knowledge and experience to help at least 90% of men affected by male infertility become genetic fathers. We collaborate closely with prominent urologists for cases requiring specialized male infertility expertise. Additionally, our expertise in handling complex female infertility issues, such as premature ovarian aging and diminished ovarian reserve, makes CHR a comprehensive infertility center in New York, NY for both male and female infertility concerns. With modern treatment tools, the majority of men with infertility issues can achieve fatherhood, benefiting from CHR's integrated approach to fertility care.
What Causes Male Infertility?
Male infertility can be attributed to various factors that affect the quantity and/or quality of sperm. Some common causes include blockages in the sperm's exit route, retrograde ejaculation (where semen is ejaculated backward into the bladder), and low or absent sperm production in the testes. The most prevalent cause of male infertility is low sperm count known as oligospermia. This condition is diagnosed when sperm count falls below 20 million per milliliter of semen, compared to the normal range of 20 million to 120 million per milliliter. A complete lack of sperm, known as azoospermia, is less common, affecting less than 1% of the population. Low sperm count reduces the likelihood of sperm reaching and fertilizing an egg, leading to infertility.
Several factors contribute to low sperm count, including structural issues such as obstructions in the ejaculation tract, hormonal insufficiency, testicular injuries, and genetic conditions like Klinefelter syndrome. A varicocele, which is the dilation of veins in the scrotum, can also decrease sperm count by overheating the testicles and affecting sperm production. Other causes can include certain medications and lifestyle factors. In cases of azoospermia, families may assume that having a child is impossible. However, at the Center for Human Reproduction in New York, NY, treatments are available that allow small amounts of sperm to be harvested from the testes through microsurgeries performed by CHR's affiliate urologists. These advanced procedures enable azoospermic men to become fathers, providing hope for those previously diagnosed with this condition.
How Is Male Infertility Treated?
Treatment for male infertility varies greatly, depending on the severity of the sperm issue. For mild cases, artificial insemination, also known as intrauterine insemination (IUI), may be sufficient. During an IUI cycle, the semen sample is prepared and concentrated in the laboratory before being injected directly into the uterus, which can often overcome male infertility by increasing the concentration of sperm and delivering it closer to the egg. In more severe cases, in vitro fertilization (IVF) is often the best option. IVF for male infertility includes a procedure called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), which involves injecting a single sperm directly into an egg. For the most severe cases of male infertility, such as azoospermia (complete absence of sperm), our infertility specialists in New York, NY collaborate with highly specialized urology colleagues who perform procedures like testicular sperm extraction (TESE) or testicular biopsy to retrieve sperm directly from the testes. These retrieved sperm can then be used in ICSI to fertilize the woman's eggs during an IVF cycle.
ICSI has revolutionized the treatment of male infertility, making it possible for many men with severe male factor infertility to become genetic fathers. While some urologists may recommend surgery to treat male infertility caused by structural problems, like varicoceles or a past vasectomy, these surgeries often have limited success in restoring natural fertility. Fertility specialists typically prioritize treatments that enable spontaneous conception over those that simply improve sperm quality. Therefore, IVF with ICSI remains a more reliable approach for achieving pregnancy in cases of severe male infertility.
Center For Human Reproduction Reviews
Great doctor! Very professional, kind but also very delicate. Doctor Barad has always time for patient. He ask a lot before he gives a diagnosis. Highly recommend his experience and his clinic!
Great experience. Staff very kind and explained everything
While I was not successful in conceiving at The Center for Human Reproduction, I would absolutely recommend them. As someone who may be considered a more complex case, CHR gave me hope during a time when I truly needed it most.First and foremost, everyone there is wonderful. Friendly, kind, compassionate, and incredibly supportive. Even the front desk staff greeted us by name almost daily, which made such a difference during an emotional process. Maria and Sonia were especially exceptional, and I am also grateful for Dr. Gleicher. He was realistic while still being compassionate, and I trusted his professional opinion and expertise.The only reason we are no longer with CHR is because we are from Texas, and after spending two months in New York for two IVF cycles, we decided to pursue treatment closer to home.Now that I have experienced another clinic firsthand, I can honestly say the overall experience at CHR is unmatched. The ultrasounds, bloodwork, communication, organization, and cohesive care all felt efficient and personalized.As an out-of-towner, I also appreciated their Upper East Side location. Walking through Central Park after appointments became part of our routine, and somehow made a difficult experience feel a little lighter.I will always be grateful for the care, kindness, and hope CHR gave us.
Professional, knowledgeable and efficient. I would highly recommend this clinic.
Feeling hopeful again post consultation with Dr. Norbert Gleicher!
237
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating
Why Choose CHR to Address Male Infertility?
Male infertility is a complex issue, but with specialized care and proper treatment, many men can achieve their dream of fatherhood. At the Center for Human Reproduction, Dr. Gleicher and Dr. Barad offer comprehensive treatment for both male and female infertility, recognizing that many couples face challenges on both sides. Our experienced team of infertility specialists is equipped to handle even the most severe cases of male infertility with a success rate of helping 90% of affected men become genetic fathers. With our specialized experience in addressing complex female infertility issues, CHR is your one-stop infertility center. If you or your partner are struggling with infertility, we encourage you to reach out to CHR today for a personalized consultation and take the first step toward building your family.