What is male factor infertility
Male factor infertility refers to not being able to conceive with a female partner after 1 year of unprotected intercourse. It can occur if there is no or low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or a blockage that prevents sperm from being ejaculated. Problems with sperm, including a low sperm count and sperm quality, are quite common. They’re a factor in around 1 in 3 couples who have trouble trying to get pregnant. It's diagnosed with a semen analysis. The semen is collected by masturbation into a sterile pot, usually within a fertility clinic setting. The test will analyse the volume, how many sperm there are (concentration), how the sperm are moving (motility) and how they are shaped (morphology).
What type of male factor infertility do you have?
ICI can help you conceive with male factor infertility, however it will not help treat any underlying condition you might have. Male factor infertility can present itself in a number of different ways. We've summarised this in the drop downs below.
Definition
A sperm count lower than 39 million per ejaculate. This is determined by a semen analysis and interpreted as oligospermia or oligozoospermia.
Is the Béa Treatment suitable?
The Béa Treatment is suitable if you have a low count as the cervical cap concentrates semen near the cervix.
Definition
Total motility (movement of sperm) lower than 42% in the ejaculate, as determined by a semen analysis. This is determined by a semen analysis and interpreted as astenospermia or astenozoospermia.
Is the Béa Treatment suitable?
The Béa Treatment is suitable if you have low motility as the cervical cap concentrates semen near the cervix.
Definition
Morphology (normal forms) lower than 4%, as determined by a semen analysis. This is determined by a semen analysis and interpreted as teratospermia or teratozoospermia.
Is the Béa Treatment suitable?
The Béa Treatment is suitable if you have low morphology as the cervical cap concentrates semen near the cervix.
Definition
A combination of multiple factors (for example low sperm count and low sperm motility).
Is the Béa Treatment suitable?
The Béa Treatment might be suitable if you have a combination of the factors - but we can't say for certain what your chances of pregnancy might be.
It's important to note - if no sperm or no moving sperm are found in the ejaculate - the Béa Treatment would not be suitable.
Speaking to your GP about male factor infertility
If you've been diagnosed with male factor infertility, your GP may initially suggest trying to conceive with intercourse for a little longer. Many couples conceive within the second year of trying. Your GP can help you optimise your health if there are any lifestyle changes you could be making or refer you for further investigations or to a specialist.
If you’re not sure what to discuss with your GP - read our article
How to speak with your doctor about fertility for support.