Definition
Difficulty conceiving with a possible male contribution. Azoospermia means no sperm are found in the analysed ejaculate.
Symptoms
Usually no symptoms; testicular history, sexual difficulties or hormonal signs may help.
How it may be discovered
Couple assessment generally follows twelve months of trying, earlier for risk factors or the partner’s age.
When to seek care
Seek earlier advice for known risks or an abnormal semen result.
Investigations and tests
Examination, repeated abnormal semen analysis, and selected hormones, genetic testing or imaging.
Reaching a diagnosis
Assessment distinguishes impaired production, obstruction and other factors. One result cannot summarise fertility.
Treatment options
Treat identified causes, selected varicocele repair or assisted reproduction. Testicular sperm retrieval may be considered without a guarantee of success.
Explore this topic further
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