Forty percent of infertile couples are unable to conceive because of male factor infertility, where the man’s sperm production is less than optimal. At The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, we focus on establishing the correct diagnosis and using advanced treatment techniques to make it possible for many of these couples to conceive.
First, men are thoroughly evaluated by a urologist at the University of Connecticut Health Center, Stanton Honig, M.D. who specializes in diagnosing and treating infertile men. This includes a medical history, physical examination, complete semen analysis and, if appropriate, sperm function tests. For more information on sperm testing, see below.
Once we determine the most appropriate and simplest treatment for each couple, alternatives may include medical or surgical treatment of the man to increase sperm counts, inseminations with superovulation therapy, IVF with ICSI or the use of sperm from an identified or anonymous donor.
For men with severe infertility, we use a form of assisted fertilization called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). We inject one sperm into each egg obtained through ovarian stimulation (IVF). This way an egg can be fertilized by a single sperm that otherwise is unable to bind or penetrate the zona pellucida (the permeable barrier around the egg) or underlying egg membrane.
We offer ICSI to men whose sperm has not fertilized eggs in previous IVF cycles, whose sperm has severe abnormalities, or who have abnormalities in the steps required to achieve normal fertilization.
Men with unsuccessful vasectomy reversals, congenital or acquired absence or obstructions of the ejaculatory ducts, spinal cord injuries, or pituitary deficiencies are also potential candidates.
The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services performs a variety of sperm testing procedures at our conveniently located offices in Farmington and Hartford.
The semen analysis is the cornerstone of testing for male infertility problems. This test provides important information about the quality and quantity of sperm. The semen sample is analyzed for volume, viscosity (thickness), pH and color of the ejaculate, sperm concentration, motility, morphology, and forward progression of the sperm. The sample is also examined for the presence of white or red blood cells, which may indicate infection or inflammation. From this painless test, we can tell how many sperm are present, appear normal and how many are moving.
Click here to download Comprehensive Semen Analysis information.
Click here for directions to our offices in Farmington, Hartford, Branford and New London.
To make an appointment or for more information about our Male Infertility Treatment Program and our full range of fertility services, please call The Center at (844) HOPEIVF. Or contact us online to request an appointment.
