Male Infertility Treatment Melbourne

Dr Hugo Fernandes

Working with men all across Melbourne to provide minimally invasive and empathetic male fertility treatments.

What is Male Fertility and Male Infertility?

Male infertility refers to the reproductive health of a male, specifically in regards to their ability to impregnate their female partner. In cases where a couple has unsuccessfully been trying to conceive for a significant period of time (for example, having unprotected sex for over twelve months with no results), it’s vital for both partners to get assessed for their fertility and health by a physician or fertility specialist. One out of three cases of infertility are directly linked to underlying issues with the male partner’s health – naturally, it’s absolutely essential to ensure you’re checking up on your reproductive health if you’re struggling to conceive.

Common Causes of Male Infertility

Issues with fertility for males can be caused by a broad variety of different habits, health issues, or conditions. -some would require a proper fertility treatment. Some of the factors that could be impairing fertility include:

 

  • Hormonal and/or stress problems
  • Use of certain medications (such as steroids)
  • Infections or tumors within the reproductive system
  • Genetics
  • Smoking and alcohol abuse
  • Blockage of sperm carrying ducts
  • Varicoceles (swelling of veins surrounding the testicle)
  • Sperm production issues
  • Exposure to radiation or dangerous environments
Male infertility specialist Melbourne
Male fertility doctor

Diagnosis for Male Infertility

As a fertility expert, I will work closely with you to get a full, comprehensive idea of your medical history and day-to-day lifestyle. Any diagnosis I provide may be determined using any of the following:

  • Medical history
  • Full physical examination
  • Anti-sperm antibody tests
  • Testicular biopsy – removing a small piece of tissue from the testicle via needleto be sent for micro examination
  • Scrotal ultrasound – using imaging to find any abnormalities within the scrotum and testicles
  • Semen analysis – collecting your sperm to be sent to a laboratory, where they will assess sperm count and quality
  • Transrectal ultrasound of the prostate – evaluation of the prostate, checking for any obstructions of the ducts that may be affecting the transportation of sperm

Treatment for Male Infertility

Once we have your diagnosis sorted, that’s when I will work with you to determine which treatment plan is going to be most effective. There are a variety of treatment options available for men who may be struggling with their fertility. I take pride in not only my facilities, which offer the most up-to-date and high quality treatment equipment and options available, but also in my dedication to ensuring we find a treatment plan that keeps all my patients comfortable. We will work together to find something that works for you, your lifestyle, and your goals. Some of the common treatment options include:

 

  • Lifestyle changes (changes in alcohol use or smoking habits, for example)
  • Sex and relationships counselling services
  • Surgery – for cases of varicocele and obstruction of the sperm ducts
  • Male hormone replacement – for cases of hormonal deficiency
  • Antibiotics – for treatment of infections within the reproductive system
  • Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) – for cases where artificial methods of fertilisation such as IVF can assist in the natural fertilisation process
Male fertility specialist

Your Patient Journey

Referral

To receive a Medicare rebate, you’ll need a referral letter from your GP or another specialist. This also allows me to communicate with your GP or health team.

Book Appointment

I consult mainly from my rooms at Epworth Richmond, but there are also appointments available in Coburg and Warragul. Please call, or book online.

Before Appointment

We will email you a link to a thorough online health and fertility questionnaire. This allows us to spend more time concentrating on your fertility concerns at your first appointment.

First Appointment

I review your health and fertility questionnaire and any results before you attend. At this consultation, I’ll take a thorough history and possibly order further investigations. We’ll discuss the potential issues, and you’ll have an honest assessment of your fertility and possible treatments, including success rates and the pros and cons of each. This appointment will take around 30-45 minutes.

Review Appointments

Further review may be needed to discuss results and your treatment options. As all management is personalised, these are scheduled to your unique situation and treatment.

Treatment

Fertility treatment can range from advice about timing to simple medications or even fertility optimising surgery.

Ready to Book an Appointment to Discuss Your Reproductive Health Concerns?

Book an appointment with Dr Hugo – Your male fertility specialist Melbourne

The journey to treatment and diagnosis all starts with reaching out and booking in your first appointment. There’s nothing daunting about an initial consultation and check up with me – reach out today, and let’s begin your very own patient journey.

Why Choose Dr Hugo?

Personalised Care

No two patients are the same, and I keep that fact at the forefront of all my care. Any treatment I recommend for you will be uniquely tailored to your needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Modern Treatments

I take great pride in the fact that my practice uses only the most modern and reliable treatment options available. I work hard to stay up to date with changes in treatment or any new options that may arise. When you work with me, you can rest assured that you’re receiving top quality care.

State-of-the-Art Facility

My practice takes place within unmatched, state of the art facilities, offering the best equipment and technology available for your diagnosis and treatment of male infertility. If you’re looking for state of the art care, you’re coming to the right place.

FAQS about Male Infertility Melbourne

How many males are diagnosed with male infertility issues?

Approximately one in six couples in Australia experience infertility issues. The causative factors may pertain to the male partner in about one third of these cases.

How long does it take to have male infertility diagnosed?

From your first appointment, we will take steps towards identifying any underlying factors and causes of male infertility that may be effecting you. This generally involves assessments and tests, and then discussion of what this means for you and treatment options. The length of time diagnosis and development of a plan will take depends on what is impacting your fertility and what the most suitable path for you is.

How do I know when I should get professional help for male infertility?

If you have been trying to have a baby without success for at least 12 months, it may be time to consult a professional with knowledge of male reproductive health and/or infertility.

Other indicators may be symptoms that may link to male infertility and underlying causes. This may include signs such as:

  • A lump in a testicle, or both.
  • Firm and/or sore testicles.
  • Erection difficulties.
  • Ejaculation issues.
  • Decreased sexual drive.
  • Hair growth changes.
What are the stages of male infertility?

Male infertility is often categorised into two types.

  1. Primary infertility, which involves at least one year of being unable to support a pregnancy.
  2. Secondary infertility, which means that you have supported a pregnancy at least once, but are currently facing difficulties.
What are some environmental risk factors for male infertility?

There are many reasons why a male’s fertility can be affected enough to cause issues. Some environmental risk factors include:

  • Use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and tobacco.
  • Overeating or lack of exercise leading to obesity.
  • Stress.
  • Certain medications.
  • Some infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
  • Issues with sexual intercourse.
  • Exposure to toxins such as radiation and chemicals.
  • Overheating in the groin area.
  • Trauma to the testicles.
What medications may affect male infertility?

There are a range of medications that might affect your fertility. It is important to talk to your GP to find out if anything you are taking could be contributing to your situation. If so, they can help you look at alternatives.

How does stress impact male fertility?

Stress can affect the body in many ways. One reason stress can affect male fertility is because it can increase adrenergic activation. This may be problematic because it may cause vasoconstriction in the testes, which may reduce testosterone levels and decrease sperm cell production.

What lifestyle modifications may help with male infertility?

Some male infertility issues may improve with changes to your habits and daily activities. This may include options such as:

  • Seeking help to stop using drugs.
  • Reduce alcohol intake.
  • Stop smoking.
  • Undertake stress reduction techniques.
  • Relationship counselling.
  • Sexual dysfunction counselling.
  • Avoid exposure to toxins.
  • Avoid or reduce exposure to high temperatures, such as using hot baths.
  • Exercise and eat healthily.
What causes hormonal imbalances and deficiencies in males?

There are several reasons why you may be dealing with imbalances. These could include factors such as:

  • Certain medications.
  • Some congenital conditions.
  • Some cancers.
  • Disorders that affect testosterone production.
  • Chronic stress.
  • Aging.
What are anti-sperm antibodies?

Anti-sperm antibodies (ASA) can be produced for multiple reasons, such as certain illnesses or injuries. These become an issue when there is abnormal exposure to the mature germ cells, which are antigen carriers, within the immune system.

What does the full physical examination involve?

When I begin to assess your situation, I will carry out a comprehensive investigation, which may involve aspects such as looking into your medical history and conducting tests. It is likely I will also examine you, which may involve steps such as feeling your testes for lumps or checking your prostate gland.

Does a scrotal ultrasound hurt?

The ultrasound typically does not cause discomfort. If there is an issue causing you soreness in the area, it may aggravate this, but the ultrasound is done gently and requires only mild pressure with the transducer.

Does male infertility treatment involve surgery?

The treatments or alterations involved in improving male fertility depend on what is impacting your situation. This may involve surgery for issues such as sperm duct obstructions, but it may involve options such as medications or lifestyle modifications instead, or in combination.

Do I need a referral to see a male infertility doctor?

You do not require a referral to see me. However, you may be able to make a Medicare rebate claim and to do so, you will need a referral from your GP. This will also enable me to engage with your GP for medical history information and progress reports.

What is andrology?

You may hear of the term andrology during your fertility journey. This refers to the medical speciality related to the male reproductive system. Andrology includes the investigation, diagnosis, and treatment of issues with the male infertility that may be affecting a couple’s attempts at having a child.

A Note on the Chances of Success

Success rates and outcomes are entirely dependent on the diagnosis and unique circumstances of each patient. While treatments and expected timelines of success may vary significantly, any patient who works with me will be consistently communicated to about everything that’s happening. I will keep you up to date, and work closely with you every step of the way to ensure you’re receiving the most effective treatment possible. My team and I are here to support your male fertility journey, giving you the best chance of achieving your family goals.

Book a Male Fertility Appointment with Dr Hugo

If you’re struggling to naturally conceive with your partner, it’s always best to get a male reproductive health check up. No matter how minor your concerns feel, give yourself the peace of mind that comes with talking to an expert. My fertility services are here to help couples figure out what may be going awry, and your male fertility journey all starts with booking an initial consultation. Reach out today, and let’s get you in for an appointment!

Male infertility Melbourne