When it comes to fertility, conversations often focus on female reproductive health. However, male fertility plays a crucial role in conception, with male factors contributing to nearly half of all fertility challenges. We spoke with Associate Professor – Consultant Urologist and Male Fertility Specialist Dr Amir Zarrabi, to gain insights into his expertise, common misconceptions, and advancements in treatment.
What is your background and how did you get into your field?
I qualified as a Urological surgeon in 2009, first completing my medical degree in South Africa (total of 8 years), followed by specialist training (another 5 years). After qualifying as a specialist, I worked in a large teaching hospital. During this time I developed an interest in microsurgery and male fertility and over the next seven years visited various specialist units in the United States and Europe to hone my skills in this specialist field. I manage the full spectrum of Urological conditions in my private practice, but my sub-speciality and passion is the comprehensive care of men with infertility and subfertility and I am available for consultations for Repromed clients.
Can you explain your area of expertise?
I specialise in male infertility and specifically the delicate microsurgical procedures which are used to treat clients who have conditions that affect their sperm quality or ability to have children.
Who can you help?
Clients who struggle to conceive due to a male infertility factor. These may include things like varicoceles, genetic abnormalities, hormone deficiencies etc. Though my fertility clients are all men, I consider their partners an integral part of the journey to parenthood.
What are the most common misconceptions about male fertility?
That infertility or subfertility is uncommon in men.
It is actually very common. In half of all those who struggle to conceive, a male infertility factor is present.
How can lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress impact male reproductive health?
Lifestyle factors can have a profound impact on male fertility and sperm health. There is very strong scientific evidence that factors like smoking, alcohol, type of diet and being overweight are directly linked with sperm health and a man’s ability to have children. Even too much caffeine can be harmful to sperm.
On the other hand, some commonly suspected factors such as hot baths, tight underwear, and cycling are often overstated. While these might influence sperm health in extreme cases, they are unlikely to be the primary cause of infertility for most men.
What advancements in technology or treatment are transforming male fertility care today?
The availability of microsurgery has revolutionised male infertility treatment: 30 years ago men with specific conditions affecting sperm were told they had zero chance of becoming biological fathers. Microsurgery has changed this and many such men can now experience the joy of parenthood.
Nowadays, we also have more advanced laboratory testing techniques available to identify subtle abnormalities in the sperm structure. If identified, these can often be addressed, thereby significantly improving male fertility potential.
Lastly, AI (Artificial Intelligence) has also found a place in the male infertility landscape and though not in mainstream use yet, early studies are showing truly fantastic results.
When should people seek professional help for fertility concerns?
My main message is to not delay! People are starting families at an ever-increasing age, often only when both are well into their 30’s. While a man’s fertility is preserved well into his 50’s and 60’s (and beyond), female fertility starts to significantly decline from the age of 38y onwards . Interventions to treat male infertility often take time. To ensure that subfertile people have all the options available to them and the best chance of parenthood, we need to intervene as early as possible when it is required.
A simple sperm analysis, which can be ordered by any GP, is sufficient in the majority of cases to identify or rule out a significant male infertility factor.
What can clients expect during an initial consultation?
During the first consultation I take time to get to know my clients, get a full medical history and do a focused clinical examination and often a testicular ultrasound scan. I review previous test results to provide a clear diagnosis and discuss available treatment options. I encourage my male clients to have their partner also present (when applicable) at the consultation and to ask questions. Once I’m sure we are all on the same page, we talk strategy and next steps. Clients should leave the consultation feeling at ease, informed and motivated to succeed!
Amir Zarrabi
Get in touch
Male fertility is a critical aspect of conception, and early intervention can make all the difference. If you are facing challenges, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice. A simple test could provide the answers you need to take the next steps toward parenthood.
Our team of specialists can help you identify the option that best suits you as you seek to grow your family. We offer a free 15-minute phone consultation with a fertility doctor for new clients. To learn more and book a free phone consultation, click here.
Or, if you would like to book a first consultation with Dr Amir Zarrabi or another fertility doctor get in touch with our team.
