What is azoospermia?

Azoospermia is a male infertility condition that means there is no sperm in the ejaculate. There are two different types of azoospermia:

• Obstructive – meaning that the sperm is not reaching the ejaculate because there is a blockage
• Non-obstructive – there is a problem that is causing low or no sperm production in the testicles

In the UK it is estimated that around 7% of men in the UK have a fertility problem, and approximately 1% of men have azoospermia. Although it doesn’t sound like a lot of people, it is more men than you think.

The cause of azoospermia can include:

• Genetic conditions
• Treatment – chemotherapy/radiotherapy
• Misuse of recreational drugs
• Abnormal anatomy – varicocele
• Vasectomy

A semen analysis test can be used to diagnose azoospermia. During the test the level of sperm in your semen is tested; if there is no sperm present azoospermia can be diagnosed. You may need to have more than one semen analysis test to ensure an accurate diagnosis is made and it was not an anomaly.

If you are diagnosed with azoospermia, our team will investigate further to determine if it is obstructive or non-obstructive. Our team will come up with a unique treatment plan, considering your age, severe and cause to ensure you (and your partners) best interests are met.

Some of the most common treatments include:

• Change prescribed medications
• Stopping taking recreational drugs
• Taking hormone tablets
• Surgical intervention to fix an abnormality
• Sperm retrieval

As 50% of all infertility cases are male factor, it is important that they have the relevant tests if you have been trying for over a year or have had a failed course of fertility treatment in the past. At Fertility Solutions we believe that it is important to investigate both the man and the woman, usually starting with the man. There is so much than can be done to improve male fertility and so the man is a very good place to start.

This article is intended to inform and give insight but not treat, diagnose or replace the advice of a doctor. Always seek medical advice with any questions regarding a medical condition.