How Can Men Prepare for IVF?

Q:  I’m 31, my husband is 30 and we’ve been trying to get pregnant for 4 years. I was told our only option is IVF. My husband has a low sperm count. I have been reading up on everything IVF. However, I haven’t seen much on what the male should do to prepare himself for IVF. Is there anything special he should do besides the normal: no drinking, smoking & hot tubs. Also, what is your thoughts on fertile one supplements for men. I see they are $275.00. I would not like to “waste” that money when it could go toward our IV.

A: We did a Creating a Family show on male infertility where we covered some of this information. I would assume that your RE is suggesting IVF combined with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI). This procedure, where a single sperm is injected into the egg, has revolutionized the treatment of male infertility since very few sperm are needed. Most REs still recommend that men refrain from smoking, drinking, hot tubs and other activities that can increase the temperature of the testes such as wearing tight bike shorts or long bike rides.

I’m sure that I’ll get into trouble with the manufacturers of male fertility supplements, but if you are right about the cost, I would save my money since very few sperm will actually be needed for ICSI. That is, however, just my opinion.