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Azoospermia is a medical condition in which no sperm are found in ejaculated semen. This situation represents a serious problem for those men who want to be parents and have children. The lack of sperm makes it really complicated and difficult to conceive a baby.
In the following article we are going to talk to you in more detail about azoospermia and what is the best possible treatment to solve said problem.
What is azoospermia
Azoospermia is a disorder that affects men and is characterized due to an absence of sperm in the ejaculate. Sperm are produced in the testicles and when the man is able to ejaculate, these sperm travel through the reproductive system and mix with the fluid of the seminal ducts, giving rise to semen.
In the case of the aforementioned azoospermia, there are no sperm and although the semen has a normal appearance, it will be really difficult to achieve natural conception. It is believed that 2% of the male population suffers from this problem, a percentage that will increase in the case of couples. who are infertile. And it must be noted that one of the direct consequences of azoospermia is infertility.
Classes or types of azoospermia
In relation to azoospermia, it must be indicated that there are two very different types with its own characteristics:
Obstructive azoospermia
- Obstructive azoospermia occurs when there is a blockage in the ducts that transport sperm from the testicles to the penis.
- The causes This type of azoospermia may be due to certain congenital defects, surgeries such as vasectomy, or infections.
- Regarding the symptoms, it should be noted that the semen may appear normal although there is an absence of sperm due to obstruction.
Non-obstructive azoospermia
- Non-obstructive azoospermia is characterized due to a lack of production or complete absence of sperm in the testicles.
- The causes of this type of azoospermia can be genetic, hormonal and environmental.
- Symptoms will include normal or reduced semen in its quantity.
How azoospermia is diagnosed
The diagnosis of azoospermia will consist of a medical evaluation that will include a detailed medical history and physical examinations. Additional diagnostic tests may include a detailed semen analysis, hormonal testing, an ultrasound of the testicles, and a testicle biopsy.
How to treat azoospermia
The treatment of azoospermia will vary and be different depending on the underlying cause. If the man has obstructive azoospermia, his treatment will consist of the following:
- In a surgical correction of the obstruction by repair of the vas deferens. This operation will allow the sperm to be released and restore fertility.
- In cases of irreversible obstructions, you can consider carrying out assisted reproduction techniques, as is the case of sperm aspiration from the epididymis or testicular biopsy.
If the man has been diagnosed with non-obstructive azoospermia, The treatment will consist of the following:
- Treatment depends on the underlying cause and will include, among other things hormonal therapies or assisted reproduction techniques.
- In certain cases, when sperm production is very low or none, It may be necessary to resort to sperm donors to achieve natural conception.
Can azoospermia be prevented?
Prevention of azoospermia may be feasible in certain cases, since it can be caused by a multitude of factors. such as genetic, environmental or hormonal. Next we are going to show you a series of preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of suffering from azoospermia:
- Lead a healthy lifestyle It can have a certain impact on the reproductive aspect of men. That is why it is advisable not to abuse alcohol, not smoke and maintain an appropriate weight.
- Injuries to the genital area can cause serious damage to the testicles, negatively affecting sperm production. That is why it is advisable protect the genitals, in case of carrying out certain sports or work activities.
- Exposure to certain toxic substances whether at work or at home can have a negative impact on reproductive health. You must avoid unnecessary exposure to certain toxic products and follow a series of safety recommendations at work.
- There are certain infections that affect the testicles and genitals. They can have a certain negative impact when it comes to sperm production. In this case it is convenient carry out early treatment to end these infections and prevent possible complications.
- There are certain chronic medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension, that can negatively affect reproduction itself. Given this, it is advisable to follow appropriate treatment and follow-up by the doctor.
- If there is a family history of fertility problems, it is possible to perform different genetic tests before trying to achieve natural conception. This will allow you to identify possible risks or dangers and make good decisions about the best treatment to follow.
In short, azoospermia is a complex condition in men that can have a strong impact on fertility and in the ability to conceive a child in a natural way. Given this, it is essential to seek specialized medical attention, in order to obtain the most accurate diagnosis possible and to be able to weigh all possible treatment options.
Thanks to different advances in both reproductive medicine and assisted reproduction techniques, many men who suffer from azoospermia, They have managed to become parents and have children. However, it must be said that it is important to approach azoospermia with great patience and with adequate support both from the closest circle and from professionals on the subject.