Interview with Laurent Vaucher

Did you know that fertility problems affect men just as much as women, often both together? The Fertility Medicine department at the CHUV offers specialist consultations for men. It is headed by Dr Laurent Vaucher, a specialist in this field.

30% of cases of infertility are linked to problems in the male partner. What are the causes?

Reproductive disorders affect men as much as women, and often both. They concern both partners in 30% of situations and remain unexplained in the remaining 10%. The causes of male infertility have various origins. They may be genetic, anatomical, endocrine-related or sometimes be of unknown origin. During a first assessment, we are able to determine these causes in 60% of cases and, very fortunately, some of them can be corrected. The woman is assessed at the same time and a course of treatment is then proposed to the couple. The first consultation is also always undertaken in the presence of both partners. It is important that all questions can be addressed directly, without taboos within the couple.

First consultation – treatment for the man

Can male infertility be treated and is there hope for eventually having a child?

Absolutely! In cases of azoospermia, if hormone treatments are not sufficient, it is possible to perform a testicular biopsy. This intervention is practised at the CHUV with the aid of a microscope and increases the chances of finding spermatozoids. If the woman's assessment is satisfactory, it is then possible to undertake in vitro fertilisation. The parameters of success then vary in relation to various factors, notably the woman's age. In the case of azoospermia (absence of spermatozoids), it is always possible to resort to a donor.

Chances of success

What impact does a diagnosis of male infertility have on the feeling of virility?

This varies greatly from one patient to another. Among the 250 or so men I encounter each year, some experience a severe blow and feel that their virility is profoundly diminished. In contrast, others cope well with things and prefer to concentrate on the couple's desire to have a family rather than to dwell on the origin of their problem. In all cases, psychological support is offered to all couples who start a medically assisted reproduction treatment.

Psychological counselling

You are a renowned expert in your field and work in several establishments, notably private ones. What do you do in the Fertility Medicine department of the CHUV?

The Fertility Medicine department of the CHUV is one of the few structures that offer consultations performed together with a urologist and a gynaecologist for infertile couples. This multidisciplinary approach is made possible thanks to a highly trained team of professionals, with whom I have had the pleasure of cooperating for many years. As head of the andrology and male infertility consultancy within the CHUV, I have also had the opportunity to conduct various research projects, notably aimed at gaining a better understanding of the causes of male infertility and being able to offer better endocrine treatments.

Andrology and Male Infertility Clinic

Photo: ©Lauriane Aeby, SAM - CHUV
Text: Gabriella Sconfitti, Communications department - CHUV