Effective treatment of male infertility: A Synthesis of Findings from 18 Studies

  1. Home
  2. Effective treatment of male infertility
This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician.Data sources and disclaimers (data limitations, copyright, etc.)The analysis on "Effective treatment of male infertility: A Synthesis of Findings from 18 Studies" on this page is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM). However, NLM does not endorse or verify these analyses.

This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.

This information is not medical advice and is not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician. If you have concerns about "Effective treatment of male infertility: A Synthesis of Findings from 18 Studies", please consult your doctor.

For NLM copyright information, please see Link to NLM Copyright Page
PubMed data is obtained via Hugging Face Datasets: Link to DatasetPlease check the disclaimer.
This page's analysis is based on PubMed data provided by the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM).
Original Abstract of the Article

Major Research Findings

Numerous studies have explored effective treatments for male infertility, with varying results. 4 examines the effectiveness of androgen treatment, suggesting its potential impact on sperm quality and pregnancy rates. 11 reports the benefits of a combined treatment approach involving acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), demonstrating improvements in sperm quality and pregnancy rates. However, 6 investigates the use of gonadotropins for treating idiopathic male infertility but concludes that their impact on pregnancy rates requires further analysis. Additionally, 17 reviews the effectiveness of clomiphene citrate as a treatment for male infertility but concludes that insufficient evidence supports its efficacy.

15 examines the potential for FSH treatment in male infertility from a genetic perspective. FSH plays a vital role in sperm formation, and this study suggests that FSH administration may increase sperm production. 9 also addresses the effectiveness of gonadotropins in male infertility treatment, emphasizing the need for further research on their impact on pregnancy rates. 5 conducted a clinical trial evaluating the effectiveness of recombinant human FSH for male infertility, suggesting its potential for improving sperm concentration and pregnancy rates. However, it acknowledges that some patients respond to FSH treatment while others don't, highlighting the need for biomarkers to predict treatment response.

Male infertility treatment also presents significant psychological challenges for men. 16 reviews the psychological, social, and sexual challenges men encounter during male infertility treatment. The study highlights the potential for treatment to induce stress and anxiety in men, underscoring the importance of emotional support. It also emphasizes the potential impact of infertility treatment on relationships with partners.

3 examines the effectiveness of ovulation induction alone or in combination with assisted procreation methods (IUI, IPI, GIFT, or IVF) as a treatment for male infertility. The study reveals that assisted procreation methods resulted in higher pregnancy rates. 18 performs a comprehensive meta-analysis of nutritional therapies for male infertility, suggesting that L-carnitine, antioxidants, and traditional herbal supplements can improve sperm quality and increase pregnancy rates. 12 compares the effectiveness of IUI and IVF for unexplained or mild male infertility, finding IVF to be more effective and cost-efficient with comparable doses of FSH.

2 explores the impact of clomiphene therapy for men in couples with unexplained infertility. The study observes significantly higher pregnancy rates in the clomiphene group but no discernible changes in sperm quality, suggesting a potential alternative mechanism of action. 14 reports the effectiveness of antioxidant therapy in infertile men undergoing IVF/ICSI preparation. The study suggests that antioxidant therapy can improve sperm quality and enhance IVF/ICSI outcomes. 10 examines the effectiveness of Prelox treatment for idiopathic male infertility. The study observes improvements in sperm parameters after Prelox treatment.

13 conducts a systematic review of acupuncture as a treatment for male infertility, compiling data from various studies. The study suggests that acupuncture may improve sperm quality and increase pregnancy rates. 1 explores a new approach for treating idiopathic male infertility using IUI with cryopreserved semen samples that show temporary improvements. The study demonstrates that combining cryopreserved semen with fresh semen results in higher pregnancy rates. 7 reviews medical treatments aimed at improving sperm quality, suggesting that gonadotropins, anti-estrogens, carnitine, and trace elements may enhance sperm quality. While potential improvements in sperm quality are suggested, the impact on pregnancy rates requires further research.

Treatment Summary

A range of treatments for male infertility have been investigated, including androgen treatment, acupuncture, TCM, gonadotropins, clomiphene citrate, antioxidant therapy, nutritional therapy, Prelox, and assisted procreation methods like IUI and IVF. 4 , 11 , 6 , 17 , 15 , 9 , 5 , 16 , 3 , 18 , 12 , 2 , 14 , 10 , 13 , 1 , 7

Benefits and Risks

Benefit Summary

Treatment for male infertility can potentially improve sperm quality and increase pregnancy rates. 11 , 18 , 12 , 13 , 1 It can also offer psychological relief by addressing feelings of stress and anxiety associated with infertility. 16

Risk Summary

Male infertility treatments may carry side effects. 4 Androgen treatment can potentially disrupt hormonal balance and increase libido. Moreover, treatment may not always be effective. 6 , 17 Consulting with a doctor to discuss treatment options, understand risks and benefits, and make informed decisions is crucial.

Comparison of Studies

Commonalities

Many studies share the general consensus that male infertility treatments can potentially improve sperm quality and increase pregnancy rates. 4 , 11 , 6 , 17 , 15 , 9 , 5 , 16 , 3 , 18 , 12 , 2 , 14 , 10 , 13 , 1 , 7

Differences

The effectiveness of various treatments and the degree of their impact vary across studies. For instance, 11 finds acupuncture to be effective, while 6 indicates a lack of clear evidence for the effectiveness of gonadotropins. Similarly, 18 emphasizes the effectiveness of nutritional therapy, while 12 suggests IVF as a more effective and cost-efficient option. These discrepancies underscore the importance of a comprehensive assessment of multiple research findings when selecting a treatment.

Consistency and Contradictions in Results

Research on the effectiveness of male infertility treatments exhibits inconsistencies. 4 , 6 , 17 The effectiveness of gonadotropins, in particular, shows significant variability across studies. 15 , 9 , 5 These discrepancies might be attributed to factors like differences in study participants, treatment methods, or study designs. Therefore, further research is essential to establish a more definitive understanding of the effectiveness of male infertility treatments.

Practical Considerations

The most effective treatment for male infertility varies from person to person. 16 Consulting with a doctor to select a suitable treatment based on individual circumstances is crucial. It's also important to recognize that treatment outcomes can vary among individuals. 7 Ensure that your doctor explains the risks and benefits of any treatment before you begin.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on male infertility treatments is still inadequate. 6 , 17 Various challenges exist, including small sample sizes, inadequate comparisons of treatment options, and potential biases in study design. Therefore, current research findings cannot conclusively establish the effectiveness of male infertility treatments. 13

Future Research Directions

To gain a clearer understanding of the effectiveness of male infertility treatments, larger-scale studies are required. 12 , 1 Comparative studies examining different treatment methods are also crucial. 18 Additionally, research should address the significance of emotional support in male infertility treatment. 16

Conclusion

While numerous treatments for male infertility are being researched, their effectiveness remains uncertain, highlighting the need for further investigation. 4 , 11 , 6 , 17 , 15 , 9 , 5 , 16 , 3 , 18 , 12 , 2 , 14 , 10 , 13 , 1 , 7 If you are experiencing male infertility, it is essential to consult a doctor and receive appropriate treatment.

Treatment List

Androgen treatment, acupuncture, TCM, gonadotropins, clomiphene citrate, antioxidant therapy, nutritional therapy, Prelox, IUI, IVF

Literature analysis of 18 papers
Positive Content
18
Neutral Content
0
Negative Content
0
Article Type
8
4
10
7
17
1.

Cryopreservation of the occasionally improved semen samples for intrauterine insemination: a new approach in the treatment of idiopathic male infertility.

Author: AboulgharM A, MansourR T, SerourG I, SattarM A, ElattarI

Improved pregnancy rate

Intrauterine insemination (IUI) with fresh semen pooled with occasionally improved cryopreserved semen samples resulted in a significantly higher pregnancy rate compared to IUI with fresh semen alone in patients with idiopathic oligoasthenospermia.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

2.

Empirical therapy of the male with clomiphene in couples with unexplained infertility.

Author: CheckJ H, ChaseJ S, NowrooziK, WuC H, AdelsonH G

Improved fertility

A study of 100 couples with unexplained infertility found that clomiphene citrate treatment of the male partner significantly improved pregnancy rates (58%) compared to placebo (16%). The mechanism of action is unclear, but potential explanations include improved sperm quality or seminal plasma changes.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

3.

Clinical pregnancy and male subfertility; the ESHRE multicentre trial on the treatment of male subfertility. European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology.

Author: CrosignaniP G, WaltersD E

Increased pregnancy rate
Endometriosis

Assisted procreation methods (IUI, GIFT, or IVF) were more effective than intra-peritoneal insemination (IPI) or ovulation induction alone in treating male infertility.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

Treatment of male idiopathic infertility with recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone: a prospective, controlled, randomized clinical study.

Author: ForestaCarlo, BettellaAndrea, GarollaAndrea, AmbrosiniGuido, FerlinAlberto

Improved fertility
Increased sperm count
No overall improvement

FSH therapy did not significantly improve sperm concentration or pregnancy rate in infertile men with idiopathic oligozoospermia and normal FSH concentration. However, a subgroup of patients without maturation arrest had a significantly higher spontaneous pregnancy rate after FSH therapy compared to non-responder and untreated groups.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

6.

Gonadotrophins for idiopathic male factor subfertility.

Author: AttiaA M, Al-InanyH G, ProctorM L

Improved male infertility treatment
Male infertility

Male infertility accounts for half of all infertility cases. Treating unexplained male infertility is largely based on trial and error. Gonadotropins (hormones) have been used to improve sperm quality with the aim of increasing pregnancy rates. However, research on the effectiveness of gonadotropins for improving pregnancy rates in partners of men undergoing treatment has yielded conflicting results and needs further analysis.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

7.

Medical treatment to improve sperm quality.

Author: IsidoriAndrea M, PozzaCarlotta, GianfrilliDaniele, IsidoriAldo

Improved male infertility treatment
Male infertility

Male infertility accounts for about 30% of cases. While treatable causes like hormone problems, varicoceles, infections, and blockages should be addressed, many aspects of male infertility remain unclear. While assisted reproductive technologies have become popular, recent research shows the importance of good sperm quality for successful pregnancies. This review of studies found that while results vary, gonadotropins, anti-estrogens, carnitine, and trace elements may improve sperm quality, but their impact on pregnancy rates is debated.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

9.

Gonadotrophins for idiopathic male factor subfertility.

Author: AttiaA M, Al-InanyH G, FarquharC, ProctorM

Improved male infertility treatment
Male infertility

Male infertility accounts for half of all infertility cases. Treating unexplained male infertility is largely based on trial and error. Gonadotropins (hormones) have been used to improve sperm quality with the aim of increasing pregnancy rates. However, research on the effectiveness of gonadotropins for improving pregnancy rates in partners of men undergoing treatment has yielded conflicting results and needs further analysis.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

10.

[Sperm parameters in male idiopathic infertility after treatment with prelox].

Author: NikolovaV, StanislavovR, VatevI, NalbanskiB, PŭnevskaM

Improved male infertility treatment
Idiopathic infertility

Male infertility is diagnosed after examining sperm quality and conducting a physical examination. In about 30% of cases, the cause remains unknown even after thorough testing, leading to a diagnosis of unexplained infertility. This study investigates the effects of Prelox treatment on sperm parameters in 50 men with unexplained infertility.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : Bulgarian

11.

[Clinical observation on electroacupuncture and Chinese drug for treatment of oligospermia and asthenospermia of the male infertility patient].

Author: WangZhi-Qiang, HuangYao-Quan, LiangBing

Improved semen quality
None specified

Acupuncture and the Chinese drug Wuzi Yanzong Pill both improved semen quality and increased pregnancy rates in men with oligospermia and asthenospermia. The combination of acupuncture and medication showed the most significant benefit.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : Chinese

12.

A randomised controlled trial of intra-uterine insemination versus in vitro fertilisation in patients with idiopathic or mild male infertility.

Author: ElzeinyHossam, GarrettClaire, ToledoManuela, SternKate, McBainJohn, BakerHugh William Gordon

Cost-effective
Increased pregnancy rate
None mentioned

IVF is more successful and cost-effective than IUI using the same doses of FSH.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

13.

[Acupuncture treatment of male infertility: a systematic review].

Author: HeYuan, ChenChu-tao, QianLi-huan, XiaChun-ling, LiJing, LiShen-qing, LiuBu-ping

Male infertility treatment
Sperm quality improvement

Acupuncture was found to be equally effective as traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and more effective than Western medicine in the treatment of male infertility. In particular, acupuncture was effective in improving sperm quality. However, the overall quality of the included studies was low, so further research is needed.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : Chinese

14.

[Antioxidant therapy improves the results of -test in infertile men during a preparation for assisted reproductive technology (IVF/ICSI)].

Author: PopovaA Yu, OvchinnikovR I, GamidovS I

ART
Male infertility treatment

Male infertility affects 45-50% of couples who can't have children. In many cases, the cause is unknown. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have made it possible for many couples, including men who were previously considered unable to have children, to have a baby.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : Russian

15.

Prospects for FSH Treatment of Male Infertility.

Author: SimoniManuela, BriganteGiulia, RochiraVincenzo, SantiDaniele, CasariniLivio

Sperm production

FSH may be helpful in increasing sperm production in infertile men, although evidence supporting its use is weak. Further research is needed to define the optimal dosage, treatment length, and selection criteria for patients.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

17.

Clomiphene citrate for male infertility: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: HuijbenManou, HuijsmansRoel L N, LockM Tycho W T, de KempVincent F, de KortLaetitia M O, van BredaJetske H M K

Male infertility treatment

Male infertility is a common problem worldwide. Clomiphene citrate is a medication that can help women ovulate, but we need more research to determine if it can improve sperm quality in men.

Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

This site uses cookies. Visit our privacy policy page or click the link in any footer for more information and to change your preferences.