We are proud to announce that Castle Connolly is recognizing five of our physicians as a 2025 Top Doctor! Learn more
We are proud to announce that Castle Connolly is recognizing five of our physicians as a 2025 Top Doctor! Learn more
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.
Sperm quality is often influenced by various modifiable lifestyle factors, including obesity, nicotine addiction, alcohol consumption, and heavy exposure to electromagnetic radiation-emitting devices.
For men who are under the age of 35, it’s generally recommended that you see a fertility specialist after a year of trying to conceive. However, if you’re over the age of 35, have a noticeable testicular issue (e.g., lumps, pain, swelling, etc.), issues with sexual function, or a history of prostate issues, you should consider seeing a fertility specialist much sooner.
A physical examination of the genitals may be performed to assess any structural issues that could affect male fertility. A medical history is also part of a fertility evaluation; it includes questions about previous surgeries, medical conditions, or medications that may impact fertility. Additionally, a lifestyle assessment will be performed to evaluate factors known to impact fertility, such as smoking, drug use, or exposure to certain chemicals. Your fertility specialist will also want to perform a semen analysis.
A semen analysis is the most common and useful testing method for male infertility. The test enables your fertility doctor to assess various parameters of your sperm and semen, including sperm count, motility, and morphology. The semen that is tested in the analysis is generally provided by ejaculating into a sterile container.
The fertility specialist will recommend specific tests based on your symptoms, medical history, and initial evaluation. To provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options, one of our highly trained and experienced fertility specialists will recommend an individualized plan of care with specific fertility tests.
If you are concerned about your fertility, don’t hesitate to get help. Take the first step to realizing your dream of becoming a parent by requesting a consultation at one of our fertility clinics in Boca Raton, Cooper City, Jupiter, Miami, Naples, or Viera, FL.
