The bigger picture

Male infertility is estimated to affect 30 per cent of couples who are having problems conceiving, and, as Alison says, semen analysis is the usual first step taken when seeking medical advice. The man’s semen sample is checked to establish the quantity and quality of his sperm. The test might reveal a lower than usual number of sperm (oligozoospermia), sperm that don’t move as they usually do (asthenozoospermia), or a large number of sperm of abnormal appearance (teratozoospermia). In many cases, all three occur together.

If sperm quality or quantity is found to be low, the couple is usually told to continue trying to conceive naturally through regular, unprotected sex, because more than 90 per cent will fall pregnant within two years. If it hasn’t happened within this timeframe, they may be offered in vitro fertilisation (IVF).

Another problem that can cause male infertility is a blockage that prevents sperm flowing from the man’s testicles. If this is found to be the case – an indicator would be a very low number of sperm in the semen sample, or none at all – surgery may be performed to remove the blockage, or a procedure called surgical sperm recovery may be carried out and then the sperm used for IVF. If low hormone levels are found to be the issue, drug treatment may improve fertility.

As stated in last month’s scenario, infertility can take its toll on people’s emotions, and pharmacy staff are well placed to support individuals as they try to improve their chances of conceiving naturally, or embark on what can be uncomfortable tests and procedures. Signposting to resources and healthcare professionals form part of this, but being there to listen can also be very valuable.