How are diagnostics and treatment of the male partner carried out?

First, it is important to understand that an abnormal semen analysis does not automatically mean that pregnancy is impossible. In restorative reproductive medicine, there are many evidence-based approaches to improving male fertility.

These include lifestyle optimization, hormonal therapy, antibiotic treatment when infections are present, and targeted use of micronutrients.

Although fertility problems are often initially attributed to the woman, a male factor is present in approximately 30–50% of cases. Therefore, medical guidelines emphasize the importance of evaluating both partners simultaneously.

Diagnostics in the male partner begin with a detailed medical history, including previous illnesses, medication use, and lifestyle factors. Smoking, alcohol consumption, nutrition, and stress are systematically assessed, as they can affect sperm quality.

Sexual health and timing of intercourse are also discussed.

The first key examination is a semen analysis, in which a sample is assessed for volume, concentration, motility, and morphology of sperm. If abnormalities are found, the test is usually repeated to improve reliability.

Depending on the results, further specialized investigations may be required, such as hormonal testing, genetic analysis, evaluation of inflammation or infection, oxidative stress assessment, and imaging of the testes.

The goal of further diagnostics is to identify underlying causes as precisely as possible, as targeted treatment can often significantly improve sperm quality and fertility.

Treatment often begins with lifestyle measures, such as balanced nutrition, achieving a healthy weight, regular physical activity, smoking cessation, and reducing alcohol consumption.

If specific abnormalities are identified, targeted treatment may be applied, such as hormonal therapy, antioxidant supplementation, or, in selected cases, surgical correction (e.g. varicocele).

By improving the underlying factors, a significant increase in the chances of conception can often be achieved.

For this reason, the FertilityCare clinic recommends early evaluation of both partners. Depending on the results, further diagnostics may take place within the clinic or in collaboration with urological or andrological specialists.