Male
Infertility –
Hormonal
Imbalances

Hormonal Imbalances – Causes And Treatment Options

Problems with the hypothalamus and pituitary glands – glands in the brain that produce reproductive hormones – can affect sperm production and sexual function. Thyroid problems also can lead to low levels of testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) required for sperm production.

Treatment Options For Hormone Imbalances

Medication – may be prescribed for certain hormonal imbalances. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) supports the production of testosterone in the male reproductive organs. Clomiphene citrate helps the hypothalamus and pituitary glands produce the hormone that stimulates LH production. This in turn regulates testosterone production and improves sperm production.

Beware of a false diagnosis of Low-Testosterone and that taking testosterone can boost male fertility. Bottom line is DO NOT TAKE TESTOSTERONE. The most common cause for low testosterone is the falsely low lab result. Testosterone fluctuates throughout the day and a single level is not an accurate measure for adequate testosterone production.

The second most common cause for low testosterone in the USA is The Beer Belly – excess weight leads to increased sex hormone binding globulin which lowers free testosterone levels and excess estradiol levels which directly antagonize testosterone in the body. Healthy weight, a low glycemic index diet, adequate sleep and at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity exercise will naturally boost testosterone levels. True testosterone deficiency is actually not common. Males who may have low testosterone levels should be fully evaluated by a good medical endocrinologist and if there is true testosterone deficiency then levels can be increased safely without using testosterone. Drugs like clomiphene citrate and hCG can raise testosterone levels without harming sperm production, while testosterone will cause the testicles to stop making sperm. Sometimes testosterone can cause permanent damage to sperm production. In addition, testosterone supplementation can harm liver and cardiac function.

Clomid as a treatment for male infertility may be helpful but should only be used under the supervision of a urologist with infertility experience. Levels should be monitored. Data on success rates are mixed and usually treatment needs to be combined with assisted reproductive techniques such as fertility meds and IUI for the female and IVF and ICSI.