Infertility is a very intimate problem that faces an estimated 15% of couples across the world, amounting to 48.5 million couples. Infertility is not only a problem for women as it's a common myth; 20-30% of all cases are the sole contribution of males, and 50% are contributed by males alone. Male factors need to be investigated in the examination process hence. Male fertility tests offer precious information about the reasons infertility in men is encountered and allow for a particular treatment approach that responds appropriately to a problem.
The role of male fertility tests, their importance, and the steps couples can take to achieve their dream of parenthood will be explained in this blog.
This kind of understanding about the nature of tests to be undertaken for the assessment of male fertility has become vital in diagnosing the basic reasons for infertility. Most of these tests offer a very useful indication of the health of the male reproductive system and its capability, thus opening up effective treatment avenues. Let us explore the most commonly used and highly impactful male fertility tests.
Semen analysis is the most fundamental male infertility test. This straightforward yet highly informative assessment evaluates sperm count, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and overall semen volume. Abnormalities in any of these parameters can indicate potential fertility challenges.
Hormones such as testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinising hormone (LH) play a vital role in sperm production and quality. Hormone testing evaluates these levels to identify imbalances that may impact fertility.
Genetic factors can contribute to male infertility, especially in cases of recurrent pregnancy loss or a family history of genetic disorders. Genetic testing uncovers chromosomal abnormalities or gene mutations that affect sperm production or function.
In some cases, the immune system mistakenly identifies sperm as harmful invaders and produces antibodies against them. Anti-sperm antibody tests detect these antibodies, which may impair sperm motility and fertilisation.
Retrograde ejaculation occurs when sperm flows backwards into the bladder instead of exiting through the urethra. Post-ejaculation urinalysis helps diagnose this condition, which can be treated to improve natural conception chances.
Imaging techniques such as ultrasounds and MRIs are invaluable for identifying structural anomalies, such as varicoceles or blockages in the reproductive ducts. These findings may guide treatment, including surgical correction.
When the sperm count is extremely low or absent, a testicular biopsy may be done. In this procedure, a small tissue sample is extracted from the testicles to check on sperm production and potential barriers to fertility.
The results of male fertility tests can reveal various underlying causes of infertility, including:
Identifying these causes allows for targeted and effective treatment strategies, ranging from lifestyle modifications to medical or surgical interventions.
Male infertility is not rare and can be treated with early medical intervention. Male fertility tests can be quite useful to assess a case completely, enabling the medical practitioner to give the right kind of treatment. The ability to determine male factors for infertility will be the first step towards making a couple's dream of parenthood come true.
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