By Dr. Alejandro Silva - Specialist in Andrology. GUA Urology and Andrology, Gran Canaria
Table of Contents
- Male infertility exists (and it's more common than you think)
- Main causes of male infertility
- How do we evaluate male fertility at GUA?
- Treatment options available
- Why is it so important to study man as well?
- Why choose GUA for your fertility study?
- Make an appointment today
Male infertility exists (and it's more common than you think)
Did you know that 1 in 6 couples have difficulty conceiving? And the most surprising thing: in at least half of the cases, the male factor is involved.
Even so, infertility is perceived as a "women's problem", which has made the role of men invisible. Many men do not consult because of embarrassment, misinformation or because they have never considered that they could be part of the problem.
Male infertility has nothing to do with virility or sexual desire. It is simply the ability to produce functional sperm capable of fertilizing an egg and achieving a viable pregnancy.
This is not only a fertility issue, but also a general male health issue. A sperm alteration can alert about hormonal imbalances, clinical varicoceles, or even genetic alterations that could go unnoticed if not studied rigorously.
Many cases have a solution, but require an accurate and specialized diagnosis.
Main causes of male infertility
Varicocele
Varicocele is the most frequent cause. It is an abnormal dilation of the veins of the scrotum, which raises the testicular temperature and alters the production of sperm and testosterone.
- Even 1 degree too much can affect fertility.
- Varicocele microsurgery has been shown to triple spontaneous pregnancy rates.
Furthermore, in our clinical experience, not all varicoceles require intervention. It is essential to make a personalized evaluation, since there are mild cases that do not affect fertility and other moderate cases that do require surgery. The important thing is not to assume or generalize.
2. Duct obstructions
In some men, the testicle produces sperm, but there is an obstruction that prevents it from reaching the ejaculate (obstructive azoospermia).
- Causes: infections (chlamydia, gonorrhea), vasectomy, congenital malformations.
- At GUA we can repair blockages or extract sperm directly.
Even in cases of vasectomy, reconstructive microsurgery allows fertility to be restored without the immediate need for assisted reproduction. This option is also more natural and is preferred by many patients.
3. Problems in sperm production
It is the non-obstructive azoospermia, when the testicle does not produce spermatozoa or does so in minimal quantities.
Thanks to the surgical microscope, today we can detect functional areas and recover viable spermatozoa in almost 50% of cases.
4. Genetic alterations
Between 10 and 15% of men with low sperm count have microdeletions of the Y chromosome, which affect spermatogenesis.
In these cases it is essential to perform a complete genetic study before attempting assisted reproduction.
How do we evaluate male fertility at GUA?
The study begins with a semen analysis, but it does not stop there. At GUA we perform a comprehensive evaluation, which includes:
- Complete semenogram (volume, concentration, morphology and motility)
- Testicular ultrasound and Doppler
- Hormonal assessment: FSH, LH, testosterone, prolactin
- Andrological physical examination
- Testicular biopsy (when indicated)
- Genetic studies: karyotype, FISH, microdeletions, etc.
We also assess environmental and lifestyle factors: smoking, cannabis use, excessive heat in the genital area (such as saunas or laptops on the lap) or use of anabolic steroids can all affect sperm count and should be considered in the approach.
A bad diagnosis can cost you years, money and opportunities. At GUA, we look at the whole picture from day one.
Treatment options available
Surgical techniques
- Microsurgery for varicocele
- Vasectomy reversal with microdot technique (sperm recovery rate: 99 %)
Sperm recovery techniques
- TESE / MicroTESE: direct testicular sperm extraction
3. Assisted reproduction
We work in coordination with fertility clinics to apply techniques such as ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection).
4. Medical treatments and supplements
- Hormone regulation and correction of deficits
- Antioxidant supplementation when indicated
At GUA, we combine science and experience: we do not apply standardized protocols, but design specific plans for each patient. This not only improves success rates, but also reduces frustration and emotional toll on couples.
Why is it so important to study man as well?
Because in many cases, the problem is in him. And if it is not studied correctly, the couple may undergo costly and unnecessary treatments.
- Male study is less invasive, faster and cheaper than female study
- It can completely change the therapeutic approach
Studying the man is not optional. It is an essential part of the diagnosis.
Why choose GUA for your fertility study?
- Andrology unit specializing in male fertility
- We are located in Gran Canaria, with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology.
- Urology, microsurgery and direct coordination with fertility clinics
- Comprehensive evaluation in one place
Make an appointment today
Have you been looking for pregnancy for more than a year without success? Have you still not had a complete andrological study?
It's time to act. At GUA we are here to help you.
"Male infertility: not your fault, but your responsibility."







Our team was deeply touched by the warmth and resilience of the people of Dschang, who despite the difficulties, welcomed us with open arms and gave us their unconditional support.
