Male Infertility Testing: Understanding the Process and Results

Reviewed By: Dr. Suma Varsha, fertility specialist at Ferty9 Fertility Clinic, Vijayawada

Infertility can be a challenging journey for many couples, and understanding the potential causes is a crucial first step towards finding a solution. Various tests can evaluate fertility for men, providing insights into sperm count, sperm health, and overall reproductive potential. This article will delve into the different types of male fertility tests, the testing process, and what the results might indicate.

Let's get to know the procedure first when discussing semen testing! After a lab receives your semen, it counts the number of sperm and checks for anomalies in the morphology (or shape) and motility (or movement) of the sperm. The laboratory will also examine your semen for indications of issues, including infections. Sperm count frequently differs noticeably between specimens. Many sperm count tests are typically performed over time to guarantee accurate results.

If your sperm count test is normal, your doctor would probably advise comprehensive testing of your female companion before performing any additional male infertility tests.

Also Read: Why Is Male Infertility on the Rise in India? 

Types of Male Fertility Tests

The major types of male fertility tests are mentioned below.

Medical History and Physical Examination

A healthcare professional will ask you about your medical history, lifestyle habits, current medications, exercise routine, and any history of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). In a physical examination, a doctor assesses the reproductive organs and overall health. This includes examining the testicles, assessing the prostate, and checking for any abnormalities. The goal is to identify potential issues that may affect fertility. Regular physical exams are essential for maintaining reproductive health.

Hormones like testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) play significant roles in sperm production. Hormone evaluations can reveal imbalances that may affect fertility, impacting the sperm count.

Transmission Electron Microscopy

Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) is an advanced and highly detailed analysis technique used in the field of reproductive medicine to examine sperm ultrastructure at a microscopic level. Unlike standard light microscopy, TEM offers unparalleled resolution, allowing for the detection of subtle defects and abnormalities in sperm morphology that may not be visible with conventional methods.

Semen Analysis

This is considered the cornerstone of male fertility testing. A trained expert examines your semen sample, assessing sperm count, shape, movement, and other characteristics. Higher concentrations of sperm with normal morphology are typically associated with greater fertility potential, although exceptions may occur.

Additional Semen Tests:

These tests are often part of a comprehensive semen analysis to further evaluate sperm health and identify specific issues.

Retrograde Semen Analysis

In cases where semen may flow backward into the bladder instead of exiting through the penis, this analysis examines urine after ejaculation to detect sperm.

Semen Culture

A semen culture identifies infections in the semen that might affect sperm quality and function.

Sperm Aneuploidy by FISH

Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) detects chromosomal abnormalities in sperm, which can impact fertility and lead to genetic disorders in offspring.

Sperm Chromatin Integrity Test (SCIT)

This test assesses DNA fragmentation in sperm, an important factor in male infertility. High levels of DNA fragmentation can impair fertilization and embryo development.

Sperm Longevity

This test measures how long sperm remain viable and motile over a specific period, providing insights into their potential for successful fertilization.

Suggested Read: The Impact Of Age On Fertility: When To Consider Seeking Assistance 

The Male Fertility Testing Process

Below is the male fertility testing process, which is vital for sperm count testing and provides detailed insights into a patient’s fertility condition for medical specialists.

1. Providing a Semen Sample

   A semen sample is required for semen analysis or other sperm-specific tests. This is typically collected through masturbation at a clinic or home, following specific guidelines to ensure accuracy.

2. Preparing for the Semen Analysis

   Before providing a sample, men are usually advised to abstain from ejaculation for 2-7 days to ensure optimal sperm count and quality. It's also essential to avoid alcohol, tobacco, and certain medications that could affect the results.

3. Additional Diagnostic Tests

   Depending on the initial results, further tests such as hormone evaluations or genetic screenings might be recommended to identify underlying issues contributing to infertility.

Semen Analysis Test Results

The semen analysis provides detailed information about sperm volume, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and overall semen volume. Rapid progressive motility, which is the percentage of sperm moving forward quickly, is a key indicator of fertility. The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided a standard framework for assessing male fertility.

Semen Analysis Results Chart

Follow-up and Consultation

After the tests, a follow-up consultation with a specialist will help interpret the results and discuss potential treatments or lifestyle changes to improve fertility. Fertility centers like Ferty9 offer comprehensive support and advanced treatments tailored to individual needs.

Conclusion

Consulting with a medical professional is crucial for navigating infertility. A doctor can interpret your test results, discuss potential causes, and recommend the most suitable treatment options for your specific situation.

Understanding male fertility is a key aspect of addressing infertility. Various tests are available, but a Sperm Count Test can be the first step to gaining valuable insights into reproductive health. Clinics like Ferty9 Fertility Center offer advanced diagnostic tools and personalized care, ensuring you receive the best possible support on your fertility journey.

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