Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Testing
Pioneer in Embryo Genetic Testing and Gender Selection
|
Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Testing Pioneer in Embryo Genetic Testing and Gender Selection |
|
|
|
|
- Spinal Cord Injuries and Fertility - Ejaculatory Dysfunction Although many men with spinal cord injuries can achieve erections and have sexual intercourse, only about 10% can achieve ejaculation. This inability to ejaculate is known as anejaculation, or ejaculatory dysfunction. The nerves that carry the signals for ejaculation are located in the lower part of the spinal cord, specifically, the thoracic, lumbar and sacral cord. Ejaculation relies upon coordinated signals between the brain and the spinal cord. When these connections between the brain and spinal cord are interrupted, ejaculatory function is disrupted. Injuries to the spinal cord can hamper both the secretion of fluids from the accessory glands and the ejaculation of sperm from the penis. In the past, men with ejaculatory dysfunction were thought to be infertile. Men who have problems ejaculating, including those with spinal cord injuries, still produce sperm in their testicles. Procedures, such as penile vibratory stimulation and electroejaculation, are available and can produce ejaculation even in men with severe spinal cord injuries. This sperm can then be processed in a laboratory and used with various assisted reproductive technologies, such as intrauterine insemination and in vitro fertilization (IVF), to achieve fertilization and pregnancy.
|
|
|
The contents of the Institute for
Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Testing site, such as text, graphics,
images, and other material ("Content") are for informational purposes
only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional
medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your
physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may
have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical
advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the
Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Testing site!
Copyright © 2001 Institute
for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Testing |
