What is the first treatment tried for male factor infertility?

Male factor infertility can involve sperm number, movement, shape, ejaculation, sperm transport or hormone signals. A semen analysis gives the team a starting picture. Because results can vary, the clinician may request another sample and combine it with medical history, examination and selected tests.

Treatment is then matched to the finding. A correctable health issue may be addressed first. If sperm cannot reach the semen, surgical sperm retrieval may be considered. When assisted reproduction is needed, IUI or ICSI may be discussed according to sperm characteristics and the couple’s wider fertility assessment.

Bring details of previous pregnancies, surgery, infections, medicines, heat exposure and fertility treatment. Follow the clinic’s collection instructions carefully and ask when the sample should be repeated. [Semen Analysis](/treatments/diagnostics-and-imaging/semen-analysis/) explains what the test examines.

Ask whether a fertility specialist, urologist or andrologist should review the result. Treatment decisions also consider the other partner’s age, ovulation, ovarian reserve and the time trying to conceive.

Arrange a fertility assessment when conception has not occurred after a period of trying, or sooner when there is absent ejaculation, testicular pain or swelling, a history of testicular surgery, chemotherapy, or a known sperm-production problem. Seek urgent care for sudden severe testicular pain.

Ask what the semen result means, whether it should be repeated, which causes are treatable, and when IUI, ICSI or sperm retrieval would be appropriate.