Azoospermia and Treatment Methods

Azoospermia refers to the absence or extremely low amount of sperm in a male. The lack or low quantity of sperm can lead to fertility problems. Azoospermia is divided into two main categories: obstructive azoospermia (sperm production exists, but there is a blockage in the sperm pathway) and non-obstructive azoospermia (sperm production is impaired).

Azoospermia can arise from various causes. Some common causes may include:

• Production disorder or damage in the testes

• Genetic factors

• Hormonal imbalances

• Medication use

• Cryptorchidism (undescended testis)

• Infections

• Radiation or chemotherapy treatment

• Structural problems or obstructions

1. Obstructive Azoospermia: Sperm production is normal, but there is a blockage in the sperm pathway. The cause of the blockage can be a physical problem, such as obstruction of the vas deferens.
2. Non-Obstructive Azoospermia: Sperm production is impaired, and the absence of sperm is due to internal causes such as problems in the testes, hormonal imbalances, or genetic factors.

1. Azoospermia diagnosis is made using a test called semen analysis or spermogram, which determines whether sperm is present in the semen (ejaculation fluid). If no sperm or a very low number of sperm is found in these tests, azoospermia can be diagnosed. Then, a detailed medical evaluation can be performed to determine the cause.

Azoospermia treatment may vary depending on the underlying causes. In cases of obstructive azoospermia, surgical intervention can be performed to remove the blockage. In non-obstructive azoospermia, treatment can be more complex and may include hormonal therapy or surgical options targeting the underlying causes. However, some non-obstructive azoospermia cases do not respond to treatment.

As a state-of-the-art method, multiple azoospermia patients have found joy of parenthood and healing through the ROSI technique performed by our embryologist, Professor Semra Sertyel.

Surgical azoospermia treatment is applied in cases of obstructive azoospermia. This surgical procedure aims to remove the blockage in the sperm-carrying pathway. The type of surgery performed may vary depending on the location and cause of the obstruction.

Hormonal treatment can be used to correct hormonal imbalances in some cases of non-obstructive azoospermia. However, hormonal treatment may not always be effective in correcting azoospermia and its success varies depending on the underlying causes.

For men who have no sperm or very low sperm count due to azoospermia, IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) treatment can be an option. IVF involves directly retrieving eggs and fertilizing them with sperm in a laboratory environment. This method can increase the chance of having children in some cases of azoospermia.