Patient's question:
My wife has been married for three years without getting pregnant. What should I check? Please help from the expertsDoctor's answer:
Male factors or etiologies account for about one-third:1. Affecting sperm production, such as congenital testicular dysgenesis, post-traumatic inflammation (tuberculosis), varicocele, etc.
2. Affecting sperm transport, such as epididymal disorders, vas deferens obstruction, etc.
3. Affecting the entry of semen into the cervical canal, such as penis shortness, hypospadias, premature ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, etc.
4. Abnormal semen, such as necrospermia, asthenozoospermia, etc.
Zinc can maintain and enhance male sexual function and increase sperm count. Zinc deficiency reduces the secretion of male sex hormones, leading to impaired sexual function, testicular atrophy, and ultimately affecting sperm production and maturation, resulting in reduced sperm count, decreased vitality, and delayed semen liquefaction.
Selenium is a key component of peroxidase in seminal plasma. When selenium levels in semen are low, the activity of this enzyme decreases, failing to inhibit lipid peroxidation of sperm cell membranes, causing sperm damage, an increase in dead sperm, and reduced vitality.
Over-the-counter zinc and selenium supplements, such as Xinxiobao tablets and Sevic tablets, are available in the market.
Recommendations:
First, it is essential to thoroughly review the medical history of both partners (including sexual history) and conduct a comprehensive physical examination. Special tests include male genital examination, semen analysis, and sexual intercourse tests. If possible, sperm agglutination and immobilization tests can be performed to assess immune reactions. Additionally, tests such as testicular biopsy, vas deferens X-ray contrast, and male endocrine examinations may be conducted.