Dr. Bruce Semo and the dedicated team at Irys Medical Center recognize that male fertility plays a crucial role in conception. We offer thorough evaluations, tailored treatments, and supportive care to help you achieve your goal of fatherhood.
Male fertility involves the production of healthy sperm capable of fertilizing an egg. This complex process requires proper hormone levels, optimal testicular function, and unobstructed pathways for sperm delivery. Approximately 50% of infertility cases involve male factors, making comprehensive male evaluation essential in all fertility assessments.
Sperm are produced in the testes and take about 74 days to fully mature. They must have optimal count (concentration), motility (forward movement), and morphology (normal shape) to successfully reach and penetrate the egg. Even small disruptions in this biological process can affect fertility outcomes.
While men can produce sperm throughout life, advanced age impacts quality and fertility potential:
Optimal: Highest sperm quality and motility, lower rates of DNA damage.
Good: Minimal decline, but sperm DNA fragmentation may begin to increase.
Declining: Reduced motility, higher abnormality rates, and longer time required to achieve conception.
Significant Impact: Increased risk of genetic issues (e.g., autism, schizophrenia) in offspring.
Key Fact: Men over 40 have higher rates of sperm DNA fragmentation, which can affect conception success and increase the miscarriage risk for their partners. However, many older men successfully father children naturally or with assistance.
35-40% of cases
Includes low sperm count (oligospermia), poor movement (asthenospermia), abnormal shape (teratospermia), or no sperm (azoospermia). Often due to hormonal imbalances or genetic factors.
15-20% of cases
Enlarged veins in the scrotum that increase testicular temperature, which severely affects sperm production and quality. Highly treatable through surgery.
10-15% of cases
Obstructions in the reproductive tract (like the vas deferens) from prior infections, failed vasectomy reversal, or congenital issues preventing sperm release.
30-40% of cases
Includes hormonal disorders (e.g., low testosterone), genetic conditions, unmanaged autoimmune issues, or cases of unexplained infertility.
Dr. Semo performs detailed male fertility evaluations to pinpoint the precise underlying issues:
Testing is non-invasive and can often be completed in one or two visits. Dr. Semo provides clear explanations and discusses next steps immediately after results are obtained.
The cornerstone of male fertility testing is a simple, highly informative analysis:
Volume: >1.4 ml
Count: >16 million/ml
Motility: >42%
Morphology: >4% normal
Requires abstinence from ejaculation for 2-5 days prior to collection. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and inform the doctor of any current medications.
The sample is typically collected via masturbation in a private room at the clinic. It is then analyzed by a specialist within 1 hour for accurate results.
Abnormal results? Don't worry—many issues are treatable, and repeat testing is common and necessary to confirm results.
Dr. Semo uses a progressive approach, starting with the simplest, least invasive interventions:
Focuses on weight management, smoking cessation, and moderate exercise. These changes can organically improve sperm quality within 3-6 months.
Involves hormone treatments (e.g., Clomid, HCG), prescription antioxidants, or medications to address specific issues like erectile dysfunction. Success varies by the underlying cause.
Surgical correction of issues like varicocele repair, vasectomy reversal, or sperm retrieval procedures (TESE/TESSA). Varicocelectomy yields 40-50% improvement in sperm parameters.
Includes IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) and IVF with ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection), which bypasses many male factor issues. Success rates are typically 40-60% per IVF cycle depending on factors.
With over 15 years specializing in reproductive health, Dr. Bruce Semo approaches male fertility with sensitivity and cutting-edge expertise. "Male infertility can be emotionally challenging, but the great news is that most cases are treatable," he notes.
Dr. Semo creates comfortable, private environments for discussions, utilizes the latest diagnostic tools, and coordinates seamlessly with specialized urologists when surgical intervention is needed. His patients appreciate his straightforward communication and high success in improving fertility outcomes. From initial testing to celebrating new fathers, Dr. Semo supports you every step.
Schedule Your Fertility ConsultationEveryday choices significantly impact sperm health, as sperm take over two months to develop:
Our patient outcomes often surpass national averages due to personalized care and advanced techniques:
Improvement: 60-70% in semen parameters
Pregnancy Rate: 40-50% within 1 year post-surgery
Success: 10-20% per cycle
Cumulative: 40-50% after 3-6 cycles
Success: 40-60% per cycle
Depends on: Age, specific sperm quality, and female partner factors
Note: Individual success rates vary. Dr. Semo provides a personalized prognosis based on your comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis.
It is time to seek a formal evaluation if you:
Pro Tip: Early male testing is simple, cost-effective, and can identify treatable issues quickly, often accelerating your path to parenthood.