occlusion

Occlusion is the medical term used for any blockage in a woman or man’s reproductive system. In men, a blockage in the duct system (the epididymis or the vas deferens) may prevent sperm from reaching the ejaculate.

symptoms

This condition can only be diagnosed by transrectal ultrasound, vasography or seminal vesiculography.

cause

For men, causes include:

• Scar tissue caused by abdominal surgery
• Congenital conditions
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Hernias
• Vasectomies
  

treatment

For men the treatment option available is called a vasovasotomy – a procedure in which the healthcare provider stitches the inner and outer layers of the vas deferens back together. The procedure restores continuity to the vas deferens, allowing sperm to travel from the testicles to outside of the body. A testicular biopsy can also be performed to retrieve sperm, however since the number of sperm varies the couple may need IVF with ICSI.