Chromosomal Translocation
The human genome, our DNA, is made up of 23 pairs of identical chromosomes. While all of these chromosomes are present in every cell of our body, in each cell different parts of the genetic material are switched “on”, thus allowing unique cell types. Normally, each pair of chromosomes contains two copies of the […]
Retrograde Ejaculation
Under normal circumstances, ejaculation occurs as the semen is ejected through the urethra. The urethra has another branch that leads away from the bladder, via which urine is ejected. During semen ejaculation, If the muscle that blocks the way to the bladder malfunctions, the semen travels backward into the bladder. This is known as retrograde […]
Hydrocele
A hydrocele, or a swollen scrotum, occurs when the sac surrounding the testicles fills with fluid, usually leaked from the belly to the scrotum. This can happen if there is inflammation in the testicular sac (for example, following injury), or following testicular or scrotal infection as well as hernia surgery. It may also occur if […]
Mumps & Infertility
Mumps & Infertility Mumps is a contagious viral disease which can be characterized mainly by swelling behind the ears, and the salivary glands in the upper jaw and neck (known as parotitis). In 20-30% of males infected with mumps, it comes along with swelling of one or both testicles as well, a condition is known […]
Testicular Cancer
Testicular Cancer General Testicular cancer is the most common cancer found in males between the ages of 15 and 35, and it is also the most curable with a survival rate of more than 95%. Even if cancer has spread beyond the testicle itself, known as metastasis, the chances of a full recovery after treatment […]
Varicocele
In order to properly function, the male reproductive system includes a system of veins that manage the blood from the testicles, known as the pampiniform plexus. These veins are also important and temperature management, making sure that the blood in the testicles is at the temperature needed for spermatogenesis. A varicocele occurs when these […]
Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism
Male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) occurs as a consequence of hormonal dysfunction affecting the basic mechanics behind male sexual development. In these cases, the hormones needed to allow the testes to function are either completely absent or inadequate. Thus, this condition can affect the ability to produce sperm and testosterone. This kind of impaired testicular function […]
Testicular Torsion
Testicular torsion is a condition occurring in about 1 in 4000 males under 25, where one testicle will rotate within the sac. The rotation twists the spermatic cord, which brings blood to the scrotum, and the resulting reduced blood flow causes severe pain and swelling. Testicular torsion can occur at any age, however, it is […]
Teratospermia
Teratospermia, also called teratozoospermia, is the term used to describe the condition where a male’s sperm cells have a high amount of abnormal morphology (shapes), so much so that it affects fertility. Teratozoospermia’s cause is usually unknown, however it has shown links to conditions such as Hodgkin’s and Crohn’s disease, as well as to lifestyle […]
Asthenozoospermia
Asthenopermia, or asthenozoospermia, is the term used when the percentage of mobile sperm is lower than average. Complete asthenozoospermia, meaning that all sperm cells in a sample are not moving, occurs in about 1 in 5000 men. Asthenozoospermia results in infertility, as the sperm are unable to swim and reach the egg. This can be […]