Male Infertility
& Testing

Although infertility is often regarded as primarily a female issue, male-factor infertility is actually quite common. In fact, about 50% of all cases of infertility amongst heterosexual couples can be attributed at least partially to male infertility factors. Diagnostic testing can often identify the problem, and successful treatment options are available for many males with infertility.

Male infertility is the inability of a male to impregnate a fertile partner. This condition is typically diagnosed when a couple is unable to conceive after regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for six to 12 months, depending on the patients’ ages. There are various factors that can impact a male’s ability to conceive, including those that affect the production, function, or delivery of sperm.

Several diagnostic tests are used to evaluate the cause of male infertility. Urologists or fertility specialists perform these tests. 

• Medical History and Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical examination is usually performed to determine your overall health.
• Semen Analysis: An assessment of male fertility begins with a semen analysis to evaluate sperm count, motility (i.e., movement), morphology (i.e., shape), the volume of seminal fluid, and pH levels.
• Hormone Testing: Several hormones that influence male reproduction can be measured via a blood test, including testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, and luteinizing hormone (LH). An imbalance in hormones can affect sperm quality and production.
• Testicular Ultrasound: Using sound waves, this imaging test creates images of the testicles and surrounding structures. A testicular ultrasound can help identify structural abnormalities, such as varicoceles (i.e., enlarged veins) in the scrotum, or testicular growths.
• Post-Ejaculation Urinalysis: A condition called retrograde ejaculation occurs when semen travels backward into the bladder instead of exiting the penis. This test determines if sperm are present in urine collected immediately after ejaculation.
• Anti-Sperm Antibody Testing: Sometimes, the immune system produces antibodies that target sperm, prohibiting its movement. This test evaluates the presence of anti-sperm antibodies by analyzing a semen sample.
• Testicular Biopsy: A biopsy procedure may be used to extract a small amount of testicular tissue. An examination of sperm samples under a microscope can provide information about sperm production and sperm cell maturity.