Azoospermia is a condition in which there are no sperm in a man’s ejaculate. This can be due to a blockage in the reproductive tract or to a problem with sperm production. Azoospermia is the most common cause of male infertility.
There are two main types of azoospermia:
- Obstructive azoospermia: This type of azoospermia is caused by a blockage in the reproductive tract that prevents sperm from entering the ejaculate. The blockage can be in the epididymis, vas deferens, or ejaculatory ducts.
- Nonobstructive azoospermia: This type of azoospermia is caused by a problem with sperm production. The testicles may not be producing enough sperm or the sperm may be abnormal.
The causes of azoospermia can vary. Some of the most common causes include:
- Varicocele: This is a varicose vein in the scrotum that can damage the sperm.
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy: These treatments can damage the testicles and sperm production.
- Genetic disorders: Some genetic disorders can cause azoospermia.
- Infection: Some infections, such as mumps, can damage the testicles and sperm production.
- Hormonal imbalances: Some hormonal imbalances, such as low testosterone, can cause azoospermia.
There is no cure for azoospermia, but there are treatments that can help men with azoospermia have children. The type of treatment that is best for a man will depend on the cause of his azoospermia.
Some of the treatments for azoospermia include:
- Microsurgical vasectomy reversal: This surgery can be used to repair a blockage in the vas deferens.
- Testicular sperm extraction (TESE): This surgery is used to extract sperm from the testicles. The sperm can then be used in assisted reproductive techniques, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): This is a type of IVF in which a single sperm is injected directly into an egg.
If you are concerned that you may have azoospermia, it is important to talk to your doctor.