Advanced male fertility testing pinpoints causes of male factor infertility
Once you and your partner have been trying to conceive for more than a year, it’s time to seek help. That timeframe is even shorter – just six months – if the female partner is 35 or older. David T. Vandermolen MD, MS, our Northern Louisiana fertility center expert, begins with a complete fertility workup, which includes testing for both partners. For men, the first step is a semen analysis. If the results uncover any abnormalities, Dr. Vandermolen may recommend more advanced male fertility testing to reveal potential causes of male factor infertility.
Does infertility affect men?
An estimated 1 in 8 U.S. couples will face infertility when trying to create or build their families. In about 30% to 40% of these cases, male factor infertility is the culprit. Female infertility accounts for another third. The remaining situations are comprised of combined factors from both partners, or the issues fall into the unexplained category.
When men are diagnosed with infertility, they may feel extra frustration or stigmatized, even though this condition is more common than many people realize. The good news is that Dr. Vandermolen can offer many effective fertility treatments to help most men with infertility become fathers.
Breaking down a semen analysis
Infertility testing for male partners begins with a semen analysis. This test measures sperm volume, shape, motility, quality, count and pH levels. For the semen analysis, your partner will need to bring a fresh sample from home or collect it in a private room at our clinic. If the analysis reveals unusual numbers, Dr. Vandermolen may make a referral to a urologist, a physician who specializes in the male reproductive system, for further assessment.
What does advanced male fertility testing entail?
While the idea of additional screenings may feel discouraging, advanced male fertility testing can uncover deeper insights into the reasons for the difficulty in conceiving. These follow-up tests are designed to identify the root causes of male factor infertility, so that the right treatment can be used to overcome them.
- Scrotal ultrasound to look for physical issues, such as a varicocele
- Transrectal ultrasound to examine the prostate and check for any blockages
- Blood work to ensure testosterone and other hormones are in the correct ranges
- Genetic testing to confirm certain congenital or inherited conditions
- Testicular biopsy to assess sperm development
- Antisperm antibody testing to see if proteins that mistakenly attack the sperm are present
Dr. Vandermolen will consult with your partner’s urologist to review the results from these additional evaluations, then create a customized treatment plan to address male factor infertility issues.
Dealing with infertility can understandably cause disappointment and frustration. Through advanced male fertility testing, Dr. Vandermolen can offer our patients clearer answers and provide more targeted treatment options to increase the odds of a healthy pregnancy. Contact our office to make an appointment with our Northern Louisiana fertility center expert.