Male Infertility Treatment in Birmingham
Male infertility is identified in approximately 40 to 50% of infertile couples. Most male infertility problems are diagnosable and many are treatable. Mr Syed Ali Shahzad, Consultant Urological and Robotic Surgeon, provides specialist male infertility assessment and treatment at private hospitals across Birmingham.
Causes of Male Infertility
- Sperm production disorders: Low sperm count (oligospermia), poor sperm motility (asthenospermia) or abnormal sperm shape (teratospermia). These may be caused by hormonal imbalances, genetic conditions, undescended testes, infections, medications or unknown factors.
- Varicocele: Dilated veins in the scrotum that raise testicular temperature and impair sperm production. The most common correctable cause of male infertility.
- Obstruction: Blockage in the vas deferens or epididymis preventing sperm from reaching the ejaculate. Can be congenital or acquired (e.g., after infection or vasectomy).
- Hormonal causes: Low testosterone, elevated prolactin, thyroid disease.
- Retrograde ejaculation: Semen passes backwards into the bladder rather than out through the penis, sometimes seen after prostate surgery or in men with diabetes.
Assessment
Assessment begins with a detailed history, physical examination and semen analysis (at least two samples taken 2 to 3 months apart). Blood tests assess hormone levels. Scrotal ultrasound identifies structural abnormalities including varicocele. Genetic testing (karyotype, Y chromosome microdeletion) may be recommended in men with severe oligospermia or azoospermia.
Treatment
- Varicocele surgery: Varicocele repair (varicocelectomy) can improve semen parameters in a significant proportion of men.
- Hormonal treatment: For men with specific hormonal deficiencies.
- Surgical sperm retrieval: TESA (testicular sperm aspiration) or micro-TESE for use with IVF/ICSI in men with obstructive or non-obstructive azoospermia.
- Vasectomy reversal: Reanastomosis of the vas deferens for men who have previously had a vasectomy and wish to conceive naturally.
Book a Male Infertility Consultation in Birmingham
No GP referral is required. Mr Shahzad is recognised by BUPA, AXA, AVIVA, Vitality, Cigna and WPA. Book an appointment or contact us.