For women, the fallopian tubes are the passage for nurturing life; for men, the vas deferens is the same. It is through the connection of the vas deferens and fallopian tubes that sperm and eggs can combine, leading to the birth of new life. However, if there is a “traffic accident” during transport, it can prevent sperm from entering the female body, preventing the sperm from combining with the egg and thus hindering the conception of new life, ultimately leading to male infertility.
1. Common Symptoms of Vas Deferens Blockage
1. In male patients, their semen either lacks sperm or has a very low sperm count.
2. The testicles of patients with vas deferens blockage are either normal or slightly reduced in size, with the texture being mostly normal.
3. Patients with vas deferens blockage may have a blood FSH level that is mostly normal or slightly elevated, which is a common symptom of vas deferens blockage.
4. The epididymis of patients with vas deferens blockage or the palpation of the vas deferens may show abnormalities.
2. Impact of Vas Deferens Blockage on Fertility
1. Sperm obstruction: Sperm needs to pass through the vas deferens to reach the ejaculatory duct and be released outside the body. Once the vas deferens is blocked, sperm cannot be released normally, leading to infertility.
2. Azoospermia: Vas deferens blockage can lead to obstructive azoospermia, where no sperm is released during ejaculation. This affects male fertility and hinders natural conception for couples.
3. Testicular function impact: After vas deferens blockage, the secretion of male hormones by the testes may be affected, leading to reduced testicular function and ultimately affecting fertility.
4. Impact on sperm quality: Vas deferens blockage can result in a decrease in sperm count, reduced quality of sperm, and even the presence of abnormal sperm, all of which can have adverse effects on fertilization.
5. Increased risk of infertility: Vas deferens blockage is a significant cause of male infertility. Without timely treatment, it can increase the risk of infertility and affect couples’ fertility plans.
6. Psychological and physiological effects: Vas deferens blockage has a significant impact on male psychology and physiology. Patients may experience considerable psychological stress, affecting their quality of life.
3. Treatment of Vas Deferens Blockage
1. Surgical Treatment: Surgical treatment is the primary method for addressing vas deferens blockage. Depending on the location and cause of the blockage, procedures like vas deferens recanalization or vas deferens anastomosis can be chosen. The success rate of surgery is relatively high, often exceeding 80%.
2. Conservative Treatment: For patients who are not suitable for surgery, conservative treatments like medication or acupuncture can be used. These methods can improve vas deferens blood circulation and promote sperm release.
3. Assisted Reproductive Techniques: Patients with bilateral vas deferens blockage can opt for assisted reproductive techniques such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or artificial insemination. These methods can help couples achieve their fertility goals.
4. Lifestyle adjustments: Patients undergoing treatment also need to make lifestyle adjustments such as quitting smoking, cutting down on alcohol, and avoiding high-temperature environments. These measures can help improve fertility.
In conclusion, vas deferens blockage has a profound impact on male fertility. Once vas deferens blockage is identified, prompt medical attention should be sought, and appropriate treatment methods chosen. Patients should maintain a positive attitude, cooperate with medical professionals, and enhance their chances of fertility. During treatment, adjusting lifestyle and dietary habits is also crucial. It is hoped that every patient can recover soon and realize their dream of parenthood.
