Fertility is complex for both men and women. A lot of components must align for a man to impregnate a woman. A number of things can disrupt this alignment, leading to issues with fertility. Health problems and medical treatments are known to cause problems, including the loss of testosterone. The loss of testosterone is often referred to as male hypogonadism, which comes in two forms -- primary and secondary.
Testosterone
Testosterone is essential in triggering and maintaining sperm production in men. Any sort of hormonal imbalance can affect spermatogenesis, which is the process of sperm cell development. Without testosterone, the testes are unable to create sperm, and this can lead to issues with fertility.
Primary Hypogonadism
Primary hypogonadism is one potential cause for the loss of testosterone. This condition always involves abnormalities with the testicles, where the glands actually fail to produce an adequate amount of this male sex hormone. According to MayoClinic.com, aging, direct injury and even medications can lead to testicular failure and the loss of testosterone. It may also be the result of congenital disorders, mumps or hemochromatosis, a condition where you have too much iron in your blood.
Secondary Hypogonadism
While the testicles are the primary source of testosterone, they aren't the only glands of the body responsible for the loss of this male sex hormone. The pituitary gland and hypothalamus can also contribute to hormonal imbalance in men. Both parts of the body secrete hormones necessary to trigger the production of testosterone in the testes, notes the Georgia Reproductive Specialists.
Treatment
The cause for the loss of testosterone often dictates treatment. Primary hypogonadism is far more problematic than secondary hypogonadism, since it's very difficult to restore fertility in this situation. Correcting problems with the pituitary gland or hypothalamus in secondary hypogonadism can help stimulate the hormones necessary to cause the testes to produce testosterone. The return of testosterone can help with spermatogenesis and thereby improve fertility. This isn't an option with primary hypogonadism.
Assisted Reproduction
When primary hypogonadism is causing issues with fertility, you must then turn to assisted reproduction if you hope to have a child, advises MayoClinic.com. The loss of testosterone, however, makes it impossible for your testicles to create sperm, so it's likely you'll need to use a sperm donor for the process of assisted reproduction. Your doctor can help you determine if this is a necessary option.
