Great Success for the 3rd Scientific Symposium on Assisted Reproduction
- The male factor is equally important as the female factor in the reproductive process.
- Sperm shows a decline in fertilizing capacity and alterations in its qualitative parameters over the years.
- The science of Assisted Reproduction can now provide effective solutions to sperm-related problems. With advanced techniques and the use of Artificial Intelligence, embryology laboratories can select the most suitable sperm cell to achieve successful fertilization and pregnancy.
- Today’s man can, through comprehensive testing and specialized sperm analyses, ensure early diagnosis, prevention, and personalized treatment.
The 3rd Scientific Symposium on Assisted Reproduction, titled “Infertility of the Male Kind,” was completed. The event was organized by the Scientific Society “Conception of Life”, in collaboration with the 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, under the sponsorship and support of the Institute of Life – IASO. This was the first Assisted Reproduction Symposium in Greece, focusing exclusively on the male factor, sharing knowledge, study findings, and the latest methodologies in the field.
As part of the Symposium, a specialized workshop was held at the Institute of Life – IASO facilities, where young scientists received hands-on training by embryologists from the Institute of Life – IASO and the 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the University of Athens. New techniques for the diagnosis and treatment of sperm-related issues were presented, as implemented in the state-of-the-art Andrology Laboratory of the Institute of Life – IASO.
More than 600 distinguished scientists from Greece and abroad participated in the Symposium, representing a wide range of specialties — including reproductive gynecologists, endocrinologists, urologists, geneticists, and andrologists — all of whom contribute directly to the diagnosis and management of sperm disorders.
The event was honored by the presence of Minister of Health Mr. Athanasios Plevris, UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador and President of the “Orama Elpidas” Association Mrs. Marianna V. Vardinoyannis, Deputy Minister of Health Mrs. Zoe Rapti, Regional Governor and President of the Athens Medical Association Mr. George Patoulis, as well as prominent members of the scientific community such as Professor and Dean of the Medical School Mr. Gerasimos Siasos, Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Gynecologic Oncology and President of the Hellenic Obstetrics & Gynecology Society Mr. Alexandros Rodolakis, Professor of Urology, Director of the 1st University Urology Clinic of “Laiko” Hospital Mr. Konstantinos Konstantinidis, and Professor of Mental & Sexual Health Mr. Thanos Askitis.
During the Symposium, the main causes of male infertility were analyzed, along with the influence of external factors such as living and working conditions, diet, and exercise on sperm fertilizing capacity. The positive effects of the Mediterranean diet on sperm quality were highlighted, while certain occupational environments were shown to have adverse effects due to toxic or chemical exposure. In addition, correlations were made between the male factor and implantation failures, miscarriages, and fetal developmental disorders.
New diagnostic tests, technologies, and treatment approaches were presented, and various factors related to sperm function and erectile dysfunction were discussed — emphasizing how men can preserve and protect their fertility. The role of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in managing male infertility was examined, offering effective solutions to sperm-related issues. Furthermore, the integration of Artificial Intelligence into modern laboratories now allows for advanced analysis and selection of the healthiest sperm cell, optimizing fertilization and pregnancy outcomes.
The male factor is just as critical as the female factor in the reproductive process.
In recent years, increasing paternal age has negatively affected fertilization rates and, consequently, birth rates in Greece. Men are having children at older ages (a trend similar to that observed in women), resulting in reduced sperm fertilizing ability and deterioration in sperm quality parameters over time. At the same time, men today report lower sexual activity levels compared to the past.
A sperm sample with “good” morphological and motility characteristics does not necessarily possess all the essential attributes required for successful fertilization and normal embryo development. It is therefore crucial for the modern man to ensure early diagnosis, prevention, and personalized treatment, based on advanced testing and techniques. Beyond the standard semen analysis, specialized tests — such as oxidative stress and DNA fragmentation — provide valuable information about sperm quality. Notably, poor sperm quality can also serve as an indicator of other underlying health conditions, which, if diagnosed early, can be treated. Men should be encouraged to undergo comprehensive clinical evaluation by multiple specialists such as urologists, endocrinologists, and geneticists. These tests contribute not only to reproductive health but also to a man’s overall health and well-being. Routine sperm testing may well need to become part of standard medical check-ups in the future.
It is essential to raise awareness among men about timely family planning and the impact of lifestyle choices on fertility potential.
Early sperm cryopreservation is an effective option for maintaining male fertility and should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. There is now the possibility of freezing even individual sperm cells, including samples from men with severe oligoasthenospermia.
At the Institute of Life – IASO, a specialized Andrology Department is offering the full range of advanced diagnostic tests and sperm analyses. With the implementation of cutting-edge technologies, Artificial Intelligence, and personalized therapies, guided by the most experienced team of physicians and embryologists, the Institute guarantees optimal results in the management of male infertility.
Source: Institute of Life – IASO
