How Primary Healthcare Services can Help with Male Infertility

15:55 18th October 2017 | Male Reproductive System

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Primary healthcare services could assist with male fertility challenges before specialist services are required. However, before taking a look at how these services and recommended lifestyle adjustments can help address male factor infertility, let’s briefly look at:

(a) What is Male Factor Infertility?

If the reason that a couple is not able to conceive stems from challenges related to the man’s reproductive system, then the term male factor infertility is used. The male’s reproductive system includes reproductive organs, semen and sperm.

(b) What Causes Male Infertility?

There are many factors that can affect or reduce fertility in men. Sometimes there are problems with the sperm (quantity/movement/shape); sometimes there are issues with the semen (fluid containing the sperm); and other times it’s our habits and lifestyle choices (smoking/poor diet/stress) that make it difficult to conceive. Then there’s also age, hormonal imbalances, injuries, certain disorders, physical abnormalities, sexual problems, chemicals and toxins in occupational environments as well as chemotherapy for cancer – all these factors can affect fertility.

THE GOOD NEWS? Many of the challenges caused by these factors can be overcome. In most cases, an accurate diagnosis can be made, followed by the recommended fertility treatment plan.

What You Should Do if You have Concerns?

Before running off to a fertility clinic, first make an appointment with your primary healthcare practitioner. If you haven’t been able to conceive naturally, he or she could identify minor reasons for fertility challenges and address other concerns you may have.

We offer the following primary healthcare services and treatments to address certain conditions that could be causing conception issues:

Stress management: Men experience and handle stress differently. The important thing is to acknowledge it and look for healthy ways to manage it, e.g. counselling.

Intercourse timing therapy: We simply determine as accurate as possible when ovulation occurs so couples know when to have intercourse at the optimal times to boost chances of conception.

Weight management: Excess weight can lead to hormonal imbalances. By losing and/or maintaining a healthy weight your chances of natural conception may increase.

Lifestyle management: Do you smoke, drink, use drugs or have poor nutrition habits? All of these behaviours reduce fertility. Allow us to help you reach your goals.

Depression: Anxiety and depression may reduce fertility, but there are treatment options. Adopting healthy habits is a good start, but there are also medications.

Medication: Some (usually prescription) medications could be the reason you’re not able to conceive. You may need to stop taking the medication, but be sure to consult your primary healthcare practitioner before you make any changes.

HIV: If you or your partner has HIV, we can provide the information and care you need to give you the best chance of conceiving, even with HIV.

STDs: A sexually transmitted disease or infection won’t necessarily prevent you from conceiving, but it may get in the way or increase chances of miscarriage. We can provide the necessary tests, information and treatment.

We encourage you to take control of your fertility status by booking a primary healthcare consultation today. Get the answers and treatment options you need.

Learn More About Male Factor Infertility

To get in touch with a specialist, contact Bridge Clinic today:

Book an Appointment, call 01 631 0092 / +234 (0)1 631 0092 or email enquiries@thebridgeclinic.com