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While some believe infertility is an issue that only affects women, the condition actually happens among men as well. In truth, up to half of all infertility cases involve problems concerning the male gender. Approximately 20 to 30% of the time, low
male fertility is the main cause of conception difficulties.
Doctors perform various tests when a couple has failed to conceived a child after engaging in a year of frequent and unprotected intercourse.
In these male infertility tests, a doctor examines the patient’s medical history and conducts a physical exam. In addition, semen analyses and genetic testing are also necessary. In some cases, the patient might also need to have his blood checked for any underlying medical conditions as well as to trace genetic issues and any signs of hormonal imbalance.
Physical Exam
This involves the inspection of the patient’s rectum, anus, testicles, scrotum and penis. The scrotal zone should be thoroughly palpated with the patient standing upright. The peritesticular area also needs to be checked for any epididymis irregularities. Likewise, the size of the testicles should also be measured.
A good physical test, which should be done by a licensed urologist, can also identify varicocoeles and uncover signs of hormone problems.
Semen and Sperm Analyses
The doctor evaluates the sperm count by examining its various features including its movement, shape as well as other aspects. Normally, when there is a high count of normal-shaped sperm, the fertility rate is likewise high. However, there are times when men have abnormal semen and/or low sperm count but are nonetheless fertile. In fact, approximately 15% of men experiencing infertility have normal sperm and normal semen.
If the initial testing is normal, the doctor may perform a second evaluation just to double check the results. Usually, two normal tests confirm that the person is free of any infertility issues. Otherwise, further exams need to be done to pinpoint the root cause of the problem before proceeding to treatment.
Genetic Testing
This male infertility test is used mainly for patients with nonobstructive azoospermia (lack of sperm not caused by blockage) or severe oligospermia (sperm counts from 5 to 10 million per ejaculation). The exam determines the particular problems with the sperm and to fertility itself.
It is important to consult a doctor as early as the first signs of infertility start to manifest. Just like most medical concerns, men infertility issues are easier to treat during its early stages. Also, it can spare women the unnecessary expense and discomfort.
Tags: Male fertility, male infertility test, men infertility
