Male Infertility in Korea
Male factor infertility accounts for approximately 40–50% of all infertility cases. Korea's fertility clinics offer comprehensive male infertility diagnosis and treatment, from basic semen analysis to advanced surgical sperm retrieval.
Semen Analysis: WHO 2021 Reference Values
Korean clinics follow the WHO 2021 sixth edition reference values:
| Parameter | Normal (WHO 2021) |
|---|---|
| Volume | ≥ 1.4 mL |
| Sperm concentration | ≥ 16 million/mL |
| Total sperm count | ≥ 39 million/ejaculate |
| Progressive motility | ≥ 30% |
| Total motility | ≥ 42% |
| Normal morphology (Kruger) | ≥ 4% |
| Vitality | ≥ 54% |
Semen Analysis in Korea
How to Get Tested
- Abstain 2–5 days before collection
- Collect at the clinic's private collection room (preferred)
- Results usually available same day or next day
- Cost: ₩30,000–₩80,000 ($22–$60)
Abnormal Results — What They Mean
| Diagnosis | Definition |
|---|---|
| Oligospermia | Sperm count < 16 million/mL |
| Asthenospermia | Progressive motility < 30% |
| Teratospermia | Normal morphology < 4% |
| Azoospermia | No sperm in ejaculate |
| OAT syndrome | All three abnormal |
Treatment Options
For Mild–Moderate Male Factor: IUI or IVF+ICSI
| Condition | Recommended Treatment |
|---|---|
| Mild oligospermia | IUI (2–3 cycles) |
| Moderate OAT | IVF + ICSI |
| Severe oligospermia (< 1M/mL) | IVF + ICSI |
| PESA-obtainable sperm | ICSI |
ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
The most common treatment for male factor infertility in Korea:
- A single sperm is injected directly into the egg
- Success rates similar to conventional IVF when sperm quality is poor
- Cost in Korea: ₩500,000–₩1,500,000 ($375–$1,125, in addition to IVF cycle cost)
For Azoospermia (No Sperm)
| Type | Treatment | Success |
|---|---|---|
| Obstructive azoospermia | TESA/PESA (percutaneous sperm retrieval) | 90%+ sperm found |
| Non-obstructive azoospermia | MicroTESE (microsurgical sperm extraction) | 30–60% sperm found |
MicroTESE in Korea:
- Performed by urologists specializing in male infertility
- Microscopic surgery to find sperm in the testes
- Cost: ₩2,000,000–₩5,000,000 ($1,500–$3,750)
Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing
For couples with repeated IVF failure or miscarriages despite good sperm parameters:
- DFI (DNA Fragmentation Index): < 15% normal, > 25% high risk
- Damages embryo quality and implantation rates
- Treatment: antioxidants, lifestyle changes, PICSI (selecting undamaged sperm)
- Cost in Korea: ₩100,000–₩200,000 ($75–$150)
Varicocele Treatment
Varicocele (enlarged scrotal veins) is the most common treatable cause of male infertility:
- Found in 35–40% of men with infertility
- Surgery can improve sperm parameters in 60–70% of cases
- Microsurgical varicocelectomy cost in Korea: ₩1,000,000–₩3,000,000 ($750–$2,250)
Where to Get Treated
For male infertility in Korea, look for:
- Urologists specializing in male reproductive medicine
- Hospitals with a dedicated andrology lab
- Clinics offering TESE/MicroTESE (not all clinics have this capability)
Use our Hospital Finder to locate certified fertility centers.
Lifestyle Changes That Help
| Change | Effect |
|---|---|
| Stop smoking | Reduces sperm DNA damage |
| Limit alcohol | Maintains testosterone levels |
| Avoid heat (sauna, hot tub) | Scrotal temperature critical for sperm |
| Lose weight if obese | Improves testosterone, sperm count |
| Antioxidants (CoQ10, Vit C/E) | May improve motility |
| Reduce stress | Lowers oxidative stress |
FAQ
Q. How long before IVF should my partner get a semen analysis?
Ideally 3 months before treatment (sperm production cycle), but results from 1–2 months prior are commonly used.
Q. My sperm count is very low — can we still have a biological child?
With IVF+ICSI, even very low sperm counts (including surgically retrieved sperm) can achieve pregnancy. Discuss your specific situation with a specialist.
Q. Do Korean hospitals have English-speaking urologists?
Major clinics in Seoul's Gangnam area have experience with international patients. English-language consultations are available at leading centers.
📧 For hospital consultation and referral inquiries, contact: info@bronis.co.kr
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Consult a urologist or reproductive endocrinologist for diagnosis and treatment.