Male infertility testing is essential in identifying issues that may prevent conception. Early diagnosis can streamline treatment options and improve the chances of a successful pregnancy.
Discussions around infertility often focus on women. However, studies show that about 20%-30% of fertility problems are due to male infertility and that 30%-40% are due to both male and female infertility or for unknown reasons.
Thus, male infertility testing is crucial when developing a successful treatment strategy.
Our services at the Fertility Center of Orlando in Longwood, Florida, include male and female infertility testing as part of our mission to help you build a family.
Understanding the process of infertility testing for men can help alleviate concerns and provide clarity during what can be an emotionally challenging time. Here’s what to expect:
Initial consultation
During your initial evaluation, Dr. Milton McNichol carefully reviews your medical history, including any past illnesses, surgeries, medications, and lifestyle factors that may affect fertility. He also asks about previous attempts to conceive.
The fertility assessment includes a physical examination to evaluate the overall health of the reproductive organs. Apparent issues that could affect fertility may require diagnostic studies, such as varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum) or signs of infection.
Semen analysis and additional testing
The cornerstone of male infertility testing is semen analysis. This test evaluates the quantity, quality, and movement of sperm.
A semen sample, analyzed in a laboratory, can reveal:
- Sperm count (number of sperm present)
- Motility (ability of sperm to move)
- Morphology (shape and structure of sperm)
- Volume of semen
- pH levels and presence of white blood cells
Dr. McNichol may also request blood tests to measure hormone levels that affect sex drive, sexual function, and sperm production. Imbalances in these hormones can indicate underlying issues affecting fertility.
In some cases, we may recommend genetic testing to identify chromosomal abnormalities or genetic disorders that could impact fertility.
If initial tests don’t pinpoint a cause, further evaluations could include:
- Scrotal ultrasound to check for abnormalities in the testicles or supporting structures
- Post-ejaculation urinalysis to detect retrograde ejaculation
- Testicular biopsy in rare cases to evaluate sperm production directly
Dr. McNichol reviews the results when available and discusses them in detail, offering you time to ask questions and consider options.
What’s next?
Depending on the diagnosis, treatments may include lifestyle changes, medication, surgery, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Final thoughts
The outlook for people struggling with fertility has improved significantly due to advancements in medical treatments, lifestyle interventions, and emotional support systems.
Procedures like IVF, intrauterine insemination (IUI), and egg/sperm donation provide more options for conception. More personalized treatments based on genetic factors are also improving success rates.
If you experience difficulty conceiving, seeking medical advice early can make a significant difference in your fertility journey.
Schedule a visit at the Fertility Center of Orlando today by calling our office or requesting an appointment online.