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Introduction to Male Factor & Course Plan

Course / Introduction to Male Factor & Course Plan

Introduction

This advanced course is designed for fertility specialists, reproductive endocrinologists, urologists, and allied professionals to deepen expertise in diagnosing and managing male factor infertility. Participants will gain evidence-based insights, clinical algorithms, and practical guidance on interventions — from lifestyle to assisted reproductive technologies (ART).

The curriculum builds on foundational reproductive biology and leads you through diagnostics, treatment options, and case-based decision making.

Who Should Enroll

  • Reproductive endocrinologists / infertility specialists

  • Urologists and andrologists

  • Embryologists, lab directors

  • Fertility clinic coordinators and managers

  • Medical fellows / residents in OB/GYN or Urology with interest in infertility

Learning Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  1. Understand epidemiology and pathophysiology of male factor infertility

  2. Interpret diagnostics: semen analysis, advanced sperm tests, genetic and immunologic workup

  3. Formulate a diagnostic algorithm and personalized evaluation plan

  4. Counsel couples and integrate male-factor findings into ART planning

  5. Design treatment plans: medical, surgical, lifestyle, and assisted reproduction

  6. Manage difficult cases: azoospermia (obstructive and nonobstructive), severe oligospermia, genetic causes

  7. Stay current with emerging technologies: sperm selection, gene editing potential, microfluidics

  8. Evaluate outcomes, complications, and follow-up care

Course Plan / Curriculum

Below is the full syllabus, divided by modules. You can follow sequentially or pick specific modules as needed.

ModuleTitleKey TopicsFormat / Activities
Module 1Foundations & EpidemiologyScope of male infertility; risk factors (age, lifestyle, environment); basic male reproductive physiologyLectures, reading list, short quiz
Module 2Initial Diagnostic WorkupSemen analysis (WHO 6th edition), sample collection, quality control; interpretation of resultsVideo demonstrations, case vignettes
Module 3Advanced Laboratory TestingSperm DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress assays, ROS, sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), advanced morphology metricsLab sessions or video demos, data interpretation exercises
Module 4Genetic & Endocrine EvaluationKaryotype, Y-chromosome microdeletions, CFTR, hormonal panels (FSH, LH, testosterone, inhibin B), endocrine causesCase studies, guideline review
Module 5Lifestyle, Environmental & Medical InterventionsSmoking, heat, toxins; antioxidant therapy; hormonal therapy; empirical medical therapyEvidence review, clinical decision trees
Module 6Surgical ManagementVaricocelectomy, sperm retrieval (TESE, micro-TESE, MESA, PESA); complications & optimizing outcomesSurgical video walkthroughs, discussion, panels
Module 7Obstructive vs Non-Obstructive AzoospermiaDifferential diagnosis and management; testicular biopsy; prognostic markersComparative algorithms, real-world case discussions
Module 8Integration with ARTIUI, IVF, ICSI considerations; sperm preparation and selection techniques; use of donor sperm when indicatedProtocol design workshops, lab-clinic integration
Module 9Challenging Scenarios & Special TopicsRetrograde ejaculation, ejaculatory dysfunction, immunologic infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, rare genetic causesProblem-based learning, group discussion
Module 10Future & Emerging TechnologiesMicrofluidic sperm selection, artificial gametes, gene editing prospects, novel diagnosticsEmerging research review, guest expert webinars
Module 11Outcomes, Follow-Up & EthicsSuccess metrics, adverse outcomes, long-term follow-up of offspring, ethical considerations, counselingLecture + case ethics forum
Module 12Capstone & AssessmentCase portfolio, final exam, peer review of management plansSubmission of a full case workup, viva / presentation

Suggested Timeline

  • 12–16 weeks (1 module per week with buffer weeks)

  • Flexible for self-paced learning

  • Weekly quizzes + assignments + one live Q&A

  • Final assessment in Week 13 or 14

Teaching Methods & Materials

  • Recorded lectures with slides

  • Surgical/lab video demonstrations

  • Case vignettes + guided discussion

  • Reading lists (key articles, guidelines)

  • Quizzes, assignments, peer discussions

  • Live webinars / instructor Q&A

  • Final case project

Assessment & Certification

  • Module quizzes (each ~10–15 multiple choice or short answer)

  • Assignment after selected modules (case writeups, algorithm proposals)

  • Final capstone case submission + oral presentation

  • Participants receive Certificate of Completion (or CME credit, if applicable)

Course Benefits for Your Clinic / Practice

  • Standardized, evidence-based protocols for male factor infertility

  • Improved diagnostic yield and treatment outcomes

  • Enhanced integration between lab, clinic, and surgical teams

  • Ability to counsel and manage complex cases in-house

  • Stay abreast of new technologies and prepare for future advances