Why Urology and Andrology are an Integral Component of Infertility Treatment
Andrology is the medical specialty dedicated to male health, with a particular focus on reproductive and urological conditions that may affect the capacity to father a child. In the context of reproductive medicine, it plays a key role in the diagnosis and management of the male factor of infertility and in the formulation of the couple's treatment plan.
The pathology is not always externally evident. A man may be entirely asymptomatic, yet semen quality, hormonal status or patency of the seminal tract may be contributing factors to the failure to achieve conception. This is precisely why assessment of male fertility is of fundamental importance to the successful construction of the couple's treatment plan.
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The male factor can significantly influence the probability of natural conception and the success of IVF treatment.
Fertility as a Shared Journey for Both Partners
At Europe IVF, we take a comprehensive approach to the management of infertility. Alongside reproductive medicine, embryology, genetics and reproductive immunology, we devote equal clinical attention to male fertility, because we believe that a correct solution can only be proposed when the complete picture is understood.
All key specialties are furthermore available under one roof — our urologist and andrologist works in close collaboration with IVF specialists, embryologists and other members of the multidisciplinary team. This ensures seamless continuity of care, precise treatment timing and the selection of a management approach that makes both medical and personal sense.
The Pillars of Our Male Fertility Care
Early diagnosis
Simple, targeted investigations can rapidly determine whether treatment also needs to address the male factor.
Male Fertility Services at Our Clinic
Andrological and urological care at our clinic encompasses diagnostic assessment, treatment and prevention of conditions that may impair male fertility.
We focus in particular on semen analysis, hormonal evaluation, reproductive tract infections and inflammatory conditions, varicocele, and situations requiring surgical sperm retrieval.
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Semen analysis (spermiogram)
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Hormonal assessment and andrological diagnostics
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Evaluation of urological and reproductive causes of male factor infertility
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Treatment of selected hormonal imbalances, infections and inflammatory conditions
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Assessment of varicocele and other fertility-impairing conditions
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Surgical sperm retrieval by PESA, MESA and TESE techniques
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Integration with ICSI and other assisted reproductive technology procedures
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Cryopreservation of retrieved spermatozoa or testicular tissue as indicated
Available Diagnostic and Treatment Modalities
Lifestyle factors and advancing age are among the recognised negative influences on fertility. The most clinically significant include excess body weight, smoking, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and excessive physical or psychological stress.
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Semen Analysis: the Cornerstone Investigation of Male FertilitySemen analysis (spermiogram) is the primary and most frequently performed investigation in the assessment of male fertility. It evaluates ejaculate and sperm quality and enables determination of whether these factors may be affecting the probability of natural conception or IVF treatment success.
The investigation assesses, for example:
- sperm concentration,
- progressive and total motility,
- sperm morphology,
- sperm vitality,
- or other parameters relevant to fertilisation.
Following 3–5 days of sexual abstinence, the patient provides a semen sample. Results are typically available within a short timeframe. As semen quality can fluctuate naturally, repeat analysis may be appropriate in some cases.
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Hormonal Assessment and Andrological DiagnosticsWhere semen analysis reveals an abnormality or more detailed diagnostic evaluation is required, this is supplemented by comprehensive andrological assessment and hormonal profiling.
This investigation may help identify:
- hormonal dysregulation,
- disorders of spermatogenesis,
- sequelae of inflammatory or infective pathology,
- or other factors potentially contributing to male factor infertility.
Care may also encompass assessment for infection, varicocele or other urological aetiologies.
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MESA / TESE: Surgical Sperm RetrievalWhere spermatozoa are absent from or insufficient within the ejaculate, surgical retrieval directly from the epididymis or testis is possible in selected cases.
MESA and TESE techniques are employed in conjunction with IVF treatment. Procedures are scheduled to optimally align with the female partner's treatment cycle so that the retrieved spermatozoa can be utilised immediately for the ICSI procedure.
Where necessary, retrieved spermatozoa or testicular tissue can be cryopreserved for future use.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is a single semen analysis sufficient?
Not always. Semen parameters can vary; repeat analysis at an interval of several weeks may therefore be appropriate to obtain a more accurate assessment.
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What if no spermatozoa are found in the sample?
In certain cases, spermatozoa can be retrieved by surgical techniques — PESA, MESA or TESE.
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Is surgical sperm retrieval performed on-site at the clinic?
Yes, these procedures are performed directly at our clinic in conjunction with the couple's overall treatment plan.
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Is any special preparation required before semen analysis or surgical sperm retrieval?
Yes. Prior to semen analysis, we routinely recommend 3–5 days of sexual abstinence to optimise result accuracy. In the case of surgical sperm retrieval (PESA, MESA, TESE), the relevant pre-procedural instructions relating to the planned intervention and anaesthesia must also be followed.
There is no need for concern, however — everything will be explained to you clearly and in good time. Your patient coordinator will provide you with all relevant instructions, preparation requirements and details of the procedure prior to the investigation or intervention.
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