If you are a man suffering from infertility, it's important that you get in touch with Dr. Larry Lipshultz in Houston. By visiting with Dr. Lipshultz, you will receive ample information on the causes of male infertility and how it can be treated. By assessing your situation, the right treatment or treatments can be performed.

We'd like to consider hormone testing right now. This is just one method of assessing the cause or causes of male infertility.

Why Hormones Are Important for Male Fertility

The hormones that are produced by a man's testicles, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland all play parts in sperm production as well as sexual maturation and development. When there is a problem with hormone levels, this can contribute to infertility or lead to conditions in which it is more difficult to conceive naturally.

Hormone testing will involve blood work to evaluate the chemical balance in a man's body. The following hormones may be assessed.

Testosterone (T)

Testosterone is a crucial hormone for male fertility and sexual development. Testosterone is produced by the testicles and aids in sexual development, maintaining a healthy sex drive, and sperm production. Injury or the natural aging process can lead to a reduced production of testosterone in the body. With reduced testosterone comes increased chances of infertility.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Produced by the pituitary gland, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) helps maintain and control a man's sperm production. If a low level of FSH is detected following blood work, it may mean issues with normal sperm production, such as a low sperm count.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is also produced by the pituitary gland. One of the primary functions of LH in men is the production of testosterone. When levels of LH are low, this can contribute to a low sperm count and other issues with sperm production and male virility and fertility.

Estradiol

Estriodol is one of the primary female sex hormones/steroids that make up estrogen. That said, estrogen is also found in men. If a man has increased estriodol in his system, it can lead to lower sperm count and other problems with male fertility and sexual performance. Increased estrogen may occur through environmental exposure or a congential condition such as Klinefelters syndrome.

Prolactin

Prolactin is a protein in the human body that helps women produce milk. It is also known as luteotropic hormone and luteotropin. Research has found that increased prolactin in men can lead to problems with proper FSH levels, resulting in issues with sperm quality and production. Increased prolactin can even contribute to erectile dysfunction.

Addressing Hormone Issues and Boosting Fertility

Treating hormone imbalances can be tricky, so it's important that you speak with professionals liked Dr. Lipshultz about all of your options. If reduced testosterone (low T) is the primary issue, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is an ideal option in many cases. There are other kinds of medications and therapies to consider as well, which can be discussed in greater detail during your visit.

Learn More About Male Fertility Issues

If you would like more information about hormone issues and male infertility, it's important that you contact our men's health center today. During your visit with Dr. Larry Lipshultz, you will be able to learn more about various options for treatment that can help you start the family you have always wanted.