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Infertility to treatment: How can azoospermia patients regain their dream of fatherhood?
Azoospermia is a male condition in which sperm is completely absent from the semen. This condition is associated with male infertility, however many forms of azoospermia can be treated medically. In humans, azoospermia affects approximately 1% of men and can occur in up to 20% of male infertility cases in Canada. Azoospermia is also an intended result of vasectomy in some non-pathological contexts.
The causes of azoospermia are diverse and can be divided into three categories: anterior seminal vesicle, testicular and posterior seminal vesicle.
Types of Azoospermia
Azoospermia can be divided into the following categories according to different causes:
- Preseminal vesicle sex: Usually comes from insufficient stimulation of the reproductive system, such as low hormone levels.
- Testicularity: Refers to testicular abnormalities, including loss or atrophy, and a significant reduction in sperm production.
- Post-seminal vesicle: Although sperm are produced normally in the testicles, they are not expelled from the body due to physical obstruction.
Preseminal vesicle azoospermia is acquired in approximately 2% of cases, while testicular azoospermia accounts for 49% to 93% of azoospermia cases.
Treatment Plan
For the treatment of azoospermia, anterior and posterior seminal vesicles are usually correctable, whereas testicular azoospermia is usually considered permanent. For people with preseminal vesicle azoospermia, sperm production can be restored by treating the preexisting health problem, such as high prolactin.
For example, if sperm production is suppressed because of hormone therapy, sperm may reappear after the hormones are stopped.
Genes and Azoospermia
Genetic factors may also cause different types of azoospermia. Studies have pointed out that genetic defects related to sperm production, for men with azoospermia, the risk of chromosomal abnormalities can reach 10% to 20%. Therefore, genetic counseling is very important for patients with azoospermia who have a genetic cause.
Diagnosis of Azoospermia
Diagnosis of azoospermia is usually made during an infertility test. Confirmation is confirmed by two semen tests at different times, and further testing is performed, including history and physical examination. It is important to note that the history of azoospermia should include a review of previous medical interventions, such as hormone therapy or surgery.
Psychological and social support
The diagnosis of azoospermia often has a significant impact on the patient's mental state, and it is necessary to seek psychological counseling and social support. When facing fertility challenges, family support and professional counseling are especially critical to regaining your dream of fatherhood.
A healthy support system can help people with azoospermia better cope with the challenges of treatment.
Looking to the future
With the continuous advancement of medical technology, the therapeutic effects of azoospermia patients are also constantly improving. The use of eggs and sperm and the improvement of assisted reproductive technology make it possible for azoospermia patients to regain fatherhood. However, this journey is not easy and requires patience and persistence from the patient.
While considering treatment options, are you also thinking about the social and psychological challenges faced by patients with azoospermia?
