Irene Souter, MD: Infertility & Environmental Impact on Reproductive Health
Episode #54 of the Charged podcast
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Patient EducationMar | 5 | 2018
Confronting infertility can be scary, confusing and stressful, but it’s helpful to learn more about what you can expect during treatment. Dr. Ajay Nehra, a urologist specializing in male infertility in the Fertility Center at Mass General, shares six things you should know about male infertility.
You might think of infertility as a problem faced mostly by women, but fertility problems are quite common for both men and women. And because fertility is complex, these problems can be difficult to diagnose no matter your gender.
Confronting infertility can be scary, confusing and stressful, but it’s helpful to learn more about what you can expect during treatment. Ajay Nehra, MBBS, a urologist specializing in male infertility in the Fertility Center at Mass General, shares six things you should know about male infertility.
Roughly 1/3 of infertility cases are related to the man and roughly 1/3 are related to the woman.
The remaining 1/3 of infertility cases are related to both partners or their cause can’t be identified.
The process for evaluating male fertility is much less invasive overall. Quite simply, it’s easier for a man to collect a sperm specimen than it is to collect a sample of a woman’s eggs.
Fertility testing usually starts with a thorough medical history and physical exam, including an examination of the genitals. From there your doctor will decide what further testing is appropriate based on your current situation and medical history.
As technology and our understanding of genetics improves, researchers are learning more and more about how genetics impact our individual fertility. If initial screenings like the semen analysis are not conclusive, your doctor may recommend genetic screening to look for genetic problems that may be affecting fertility (even if they aren’t impacting you otherwise).
“Many patients don't realize that they may have genetic factors that play a huge role in their fertility,” says Dr. Nehra.
Genetic abnormalities can affect a man’s fertility by interfering with either sperm production or the movement of sperm out of the body. Certain genetic mutations, particularly those related to cystic fibrosis, and chromosomal abnormalities related to impairment of the testicles are the most common genetic causes of infertility.
If you or your partner are facing any of these genetic issues, you can work with a genetic counselor to determine the best course of action to treat the infertility and avoid genetic issues in your children.
“Many men assume that testosterone is the be all and end all when it comes to fertility, and it’s not,” says Dr. Nehra. “There are a lot of pieces of the puzzle beyond testosterone.”
While testosterone certainly plays an important role in male fertility, it is far from the only factor that determines a man’s fertility. Your doctor will likely begin by evaluating many common causes.
Treating infertility is often about optimizing overall health for both members of the couple. Your doctor will work with you to make sure that the stage is set to optimize the environment for pregnancy.
“If we can identify physiologic factors, anatomical factors or hormonal imbalances, and then exclude or treat them, then we are on the path to really enhancing your overall care for infertility,” says Dr. Nehra.
Reproduction is complex. But many people don’t realize just how complex the process can be. The Mass General Fertility Center is made up of a multidisciplinary team that includes specialists in both urology and reproductive endocrinology.
“I think the most common misconception that couples have is that they don't realize the uniqueness of the fertility practice and timing,” says Dr. Nehra. “They don’t realize the integrated practice that's required among the reproductive endocrinology group, the urology group and the couple in facilitating a successful outcome.”
This seamless integration between specialties means that our center can serve both men and women in one convenient setting. By simplifying the process of seeking infertility care, we aim to provide an environment for successful pregnancy outcomes for our patients.
Learn more about the Male Infertility Program at Mass General.
At the Fertility Center, you are a vital member of your care team. Find resources to help you and your loved ones navigate treatment.
We provide expert care using innovative technologies targeted to your needs and strive every day to achieve the highest and safest pregnancy rates.
Our multidisciplinary team is renowned for its clinical excellence in diagnosing, treating and supporting patients with infertility issues.
The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Mass General has advanced the science and the quality of care for women since 1891.
Episode #54 of the Charged podcast
Infertility is complex, and it can't always be explained. However, these simple behavioral changes from the Mass General Fertility Center can help improve your fertility, no matter your gender.
We provide state-of-the-art fertility care that is individualized for your unique needs.