Is The Fem-Tech Revolution leaving men behind?
When we consider infertility the focus has traditionally been on the woman. Investigations have been predominantly targeted at women and treatments are offered by ‘women’s centres’ and ‘women clinics’. There is a rapidly growing world market for ‘fem-tech’ innovation and products; tech-enabled solutions which are designed to address women’s health needs. But search Google and you won’t find any reference to ‘male-tech’ which is surprising as it is estimated that up a third of infertility is attributed to male factors. A third which is growing, if we are to accept the continuing decline in the viability of sperm quality worldwide, the so-called, ‘spermageddon’.
Are we, and I mean the fertility health world in general, doing enough to help men identify and treat issues that may be affecting their fertile health?
Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) and Men
The assumption is that male fertility can be assessed by a traditional semen analysis and a small number of diagnostic tests which are offered by some, not all, fertility treatment centres. However, a single, traditional semen analysis is not the only tool to assess someone’s fertility ability. Yes, it can be used to test general sperm properties and its ability to travel and reach an egg but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Sperm counts and motility vary between males which makes it nigh on impossible to establish universal parameters and the interpretation of results (and subsequent treatment) is therefore subject to a degree of subjectivity.
Research has suggested that up to 27% of men are not offered a comprehensive male andrological evaluation beyond a basic semen analysis. With access to a growing army of AI related products, surely isn’t the need for a Male-Tech revolution in the field of fertility is now needed more than ever?
Small steps, giant leaps for male fertility treatment
There is a great opportunity for advances in male orientated research and treatment solutions and Male-Tech has to be the next great advance in fertility health care. In the short term male patients should be offered access to a full range of andrology based assessments in an attempt to identify core infertility causes. Before diving into ART treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) male patients should be allowed to take a step back and pause whilst alternative options are considered. In comparison to the costs of these treatments, new, targeted tests for men to assess things like sperm DNA (which will be discussed in a separate article) are a giant leap in terms of addressing male infertility without potentially travelling down a long, fruitless treatment journey.
Varicocele – A common problem, often missed
An increasing number of male patients I speak to have experienced symptoms related to a varicocele and when treated, this has enabled them to improve their fertility health. This is a perfect example of one of the benefits of spending time to fully assess a male fertility patient. In the absence of a sophisticated Male-Tech arsenal, testing for a varicocele is an important and necessary consideration. So, what is a varicocele, what are the symptoms, how does it contribute towards fertility issues and how can it be treated?
What is a Varicocele?
Varicocele is a condition characterized by the enlargement of the veins within the scrotum. It is similar to varicose veins that occur in the legs. Varicoceles can sometimes cause fertility issues, as they can impact sperm production and quality. The relationship between varicoceles and fertility lies in the fact that the increased blood flow and pooling of blood in the scrotum can lead to an increase in temperature in the testicles, which can in turn affect sperm production and function.
Symptoms of varicoceles may include swelling or a lump in the scrotum, a visibly enlarged or twisted vein in the scrotum, and discomfort or pain in the scrotum, particularly when standing or after physical activity.
Varicocele – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of varicoceles typically involves a physical examination, where a medic may feel and inspect the scrotum for swelling or enlargement. They may also perform a scrotal ultrasound to get a more detailed image of the veins in the scrotum.
Treatment for varicoceles may not always be necessary, especially if they are not causing any symptoms or fertility issues. However, if treatment is required, it may involve surgery to repair or remove the affected veins. Surgery for varicoceles is usually done on an outpatient basis and is considered a low-risk procedure.
After treatment for varicoceles, most people experience relief from any discomfort or pain associated with the condition. In cases where varicoceles were impacting fertility, surgery may help to improve sperm production and quality, leading to improved fertility outcomes.
Infertility – A problem shared
Prior to any evasive ART being considered a complete evaluation of both male and female patients should be undertaken. Where available advanced scientific and medical technologies should be used to reduce the burden of infertility on both the man and the woman. Oten from a male perspective more common issues like varicoceles could be preventing optimum fertile health and these can be addressed without travelling down the sometimes long (and expensive) treatment route.
Male fertility – A time to refocus
Over the last decade I have noticed a considerable shift in male infertility. Male patients have emerged from the shadows and there is an audibly stronger call for recognition, support and treatment. As the spectre of spermageddon becomes more prevalent and visible the development of a Male-Tech revolution to rival the Fem-Tech will become inevitable. For male fertility patients, it can’t come soon enough.
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