Symptoms

Determining whether a man’s semen is lacking sperm cannot be accomplished simply by viewing the semen with the naked eye. A semen analysis by an experienced laboratory is required to determine if sperm are present or not.

Cause

This rare condition is sometimes symptomatic of testicular disease or blockage. Often, the cause of a low sperm count or sperm with reduced motility is unknown, but it can be related to a genetic disorder such as Klinefelter's syndrome. A lack of sperm in the semen can indicate a blockage in the vas deferens. A vasography can test for blockages.

Treatment

The cause of the azoospermia should be determined before a treatment plan is formulated. Surgery may correct a blockage, if that is determined to be the cause. As sperm are produced in the testes, a testicular biopsy may retrieve sperm to be used in IVF with ICSI. Donor sperm may be an option if the azoospermia cannot be corrected.