NAMNAM ConsultantsUrology OPD · Imphal, Manipur
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Men's Health · Imphal

Trying for a baby?
Men count too.

Male factors contribute in about half of couples who find it hard to conceive. A simple semen test and examination can find treatable causes — such as a varicocele.

● Semen analysis● Scrotal Doppler ultrasound● Varicocele treatment● Private consultation
Dr. Nameirakpam Shantajit
Dr. Nameirakpam ShantajitMBBS (SPMC Bikaner) · MS Surgery & M.Ch Urology (RIMS Imphal) · MMC Reg. No. MNP 150

When to get checked

Both partners should be evaluated together.

  • No pregnancy after 12 months of trying
  • After 6 months if the female partner is 35 or older
  • Earlier with known problems — undescended testis, past surgery, low libido, swelling in the scrotum
About halfOf couples have a male factor
Semen testThe first and key test
VaricoceleA common, treatable cause
TogetherBest evaluated as a couple
Tests

Finding the cause

Semen analysis

After 2–5 days of abstinence; often repeated once, as results vary.

Examination

A private examination of the testes and for a varicocele.

Hormone tests

FSH, LH, testosterone and prolactin, when the semen test is abnormal.

Scrotal Doppler & more

Ultrasound for varicocele and testes; genetic tests in selected cases.

Causes

Common causes

🌀

Varicocele

Swollen veins in the scrotum, usually on the left — found in about 15% of all men and in many men with infertility.

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Hormone problems

Low testosterone or pituitary hormone problems affect sperm production.

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Blockage

A blocked tube can stop sperm reaching the semen, even when production is normal.

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Testosterone & steroid use

Testosterone supplements and body-building steroids can stop sperm production.

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Lifestyle & heat

Smoking, alcohol, obesity and heat exposure lower sperm quality.

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Genetic & past conditions

Undescended testis in childhood, infections, or genetic factors.

Varicocele

When to treat it

Look

Diagnosis

Often described as a “bag of worms” above the testis; confirmed by examination and Doppler ultrasound.

Decide

Who benefits

Repair is usually advised for a varicocele that can be felt, together with an abnormal semen test or testicular pain or shrinkage.

Repair

Varicocelectomy

A minor operation ties off the swollen veins through a small groin cut. Semen quality improves in many men over the following months.

Habits that help
  • Stop smoking and limit alcohol
  • Keep a healthy weight
  • Avoid laptops on the lap, hot baths and very tight underwear
  • Avoid testosterone or “strength” supplements — they can stop sperm production
Working with fertility specialistsWhen needed, assisted reproduction (IUI, IVF or ICSI) is arranged together with fertility specialists, and both partners' results are considered together.
Questions

Frequently asked questions

Is infertility usually the woman's problem?

No. Male factors contribute in about half of couples. That's why both partners should be evaluated together.

How do I prepare for a semen test?

Avoid ejaculation for 2–5 days before, collect the full sample, and deliver it to the lab within the advised time. The test is often repeated once.

What is a varicocele?

Swollen veins in the scrotum, usually on the left side. It can affect sperm quality and is one of the most common treatable causes of male infertility.

Will varicocele surgery help us conceive?

In men with a varicocele that can be felt and an abnormal semen test, repair improves semen quality in many cases and can improve the chance of pregnancy. It is decided case by case.

Can testosterone tablets or injections help fertility?

No — they can stop sperm production. Avoid them unless prescribed for a specific reason after evaluation.

Is the consultation private?

Yes. Consultations are confidential and can be booked discreetly on WhatsApp.

Book a consultation

NAM Consultants, Singjamei: mornings daily 6:00–9:30 AM (Mar–Oct) / 6:30–9:30 AM (Nov–Feb), evenings 4–6 PM Mon–Sat · Raj Medicity Hospital: Mon–Sat 11 AM–1 PM

Medically reviewed by Dr. Nameirakpam Shantajit, M.Ch Urology (MMC Reg. No. MNP 150) · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026

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