What Does Sperm Testing Entail?
Historically, infertility is often treated as a woman’s problem even though the opposite is true. According to reporting, men represent the sole cause of infertility in roughly a third of all cases for heterosexual couples in the US and contribute to another third of cases that also include female infertility. For male-factor infertility, the biggest issues usually center around sperm quality. A variety of physiological concerns can influence this reality. So, most male fertility testing will center on collecting and reviewing sperm. Understanding what to expect when undergoing screening can help men feel prepared and also help to minimize anxiety.
How sperm influences fertility
Male factor infertility is almost exclusively tied to sperm issues. Common concerns often center on low sperm count, poor motility, or overall quality. Sometimes the precise cause may be hard to find, but for other individuals, previous medical issues can create ripple effects with reproductive health. For example, having battled cancer in the past and undergoing treatment such as chemotherapy or radiation can lead to sterility. Likewise, events that cause physical injury to reproductive organs can lead to low sperm count or poor semen quality later in life. Testing can help experts confirm if an identifiable cause is present and determine the right course of action to achieve pregnancy naturally or through fertility treatments. Just as women are often prescribed hormone supplementation, many men are also recommended to supplement testosterone to boost sperm production. The treatment method will depend on the tests performed and the results.
Getting a semen analysis
One of the most common fertility tests a man will undergo is the semen analysis. This test is non-invasive and usually relies on the participant providing a semen sample. The screen provides a macro view of reproductive health, checking for concentration, volume, and total sperm count. The test also confirms motility and morphology. The last 2 factors refer to how well the sperm move and if any physical abnormalities are present. Semen analyses may be performed multiple times, allowing lab technicians to adjust for natural variations that occur.
Blood tests are essential
Similar to women, hormone levels are usually checked through blood tests. These lab screens check for testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin. While FSH and LH are usually associated with ovulation and pregnancy, in men these hormones regulate testosterone levels and help the testes create sperm cells. If levels are low, a specialist might recommend a hormone supplementation regimen to improve sperm output.
Getting a physical exam
Sometimes a man’s infertility isn’t because of a hormone imbalance. For some people, the issue is entirely physical. Factors such as erectile dysfunction or blockages in the urethra or associated pathways may prevent sperm from effectively exiting the body. With these individuals, sperm quality is fine, but the semen is devoid of sperm. A physical exam or even undergoing diagnostic imaging can help a specialist determine the specific issue that’s present. For some men, the solution may require surgery to correct blockages, while specialized extraction methods are also an option for retrieving sperm ahead of a fertility treatment such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intrauterine insemination (IUI).
Get checked out
For men, the biggest takeaway is to not assume that delayed conception is solely related to a biological issue with a woman. Male factor infertility is a reality and, based on statistics, is just as likely to cause negative pregnancy results. Take a proactive stance by getting tested.
