Some common diagnostic tests for male infertility treatment

There is a myth that male infertility is not common. If there is trouble in conception even after having unprotected sex for six months to one year, there is a 50-50 chance that both the male and female might have infertility issues. Always consult your doctor to identify the root cause of the infertility problem. Whenever you consult your doctor for infertility treatment, your doctor will suggest some diagnostic tests before beginning your treatment. 

Common diagnostic tests to identify male infertility

According to the opinion of an infertility specialist in Kolkata, men who have issues in fertility usually do not have any signs and symptoms and have to get tested to identify the cause of the issue. 

Some of the common tests that your doctor will ask to perform are as follows:

Semen analysis:

 

Semen analysis is the most important test done to diagnose male infertility. Semen analysis is done to know about the quantity and quality of semen and sperm in it. Semen is collected and sent to the lab to check for the following factors.

1. Sperm count
2. Sperm volume 
3. Sperm motility
4. Sperm morphology 
5. pH level 

Hormone testing:

Too much or less sperm production can affect your ability to engage in sex. 

Hormone tests are done to measure the testosterone level and other follicle-stimulating hormones to determine the quantity of sperm production. 

Sperm penetrative Assay:

 

This test is performed to know the ability of the sperm to get attached to the egg membrane, penetrate and fertilize the egg. SPA test is often done before an IVF treatment to ensure the proper functioning of the sperm for fertilizing the egg. 

Genetic testing:

One of the reasons for male infertility is genetic abnormalities. Genetics can affect the production of sperm and the ability of the sperm to fertilize the egg. Genetic testing is done to identify any underlying mutations in the Y chromosome and cystic fibrosis. 

Scrotal ultrasound:

 

It is an imaging test to check the scrotum in males. This test is performed helps to detect any swollen veins in the scrotum, any signs of injury, testicular torsion and fluid collection. 

Depending upon the results of the above tests, your infertility specialist will start your diagnosis and begin your treatment accordingly. 

Conclusion 

There is nothing to be ashamed if you have infertility issues. In most of the cases, male infertility problems are treatable. Consult your doctor and enjoy the joy of fatherhood.

Why is semen analysis done in male infertility treatment?

Semen analysis is a medical test that evaluates semen health, its quality and quantity. This procedure is considered an infertility test in men to check the aspects affecting overall infertility. In this procedure, two or three different semen analysis tests are conducted to get an idea of sperm health in male infertility treatment. 

 

 

Why do you need to undergo sperm analysis for male infertility treatment?

Semen analysis is performed in addition to female infertility assessment when couples fail to get pregnant even after trying to conceive for months and years, stated an infertility doctor. Semen analysis test measures and checks a number of factors in semen, including the following:

• Sperm count: Low sperm count can make it difficult to fertilize the egg. The normal sperm should be at least 15 million sperm per milliliter.  

• Sperm volume: The amount of semen present when a man ejaculates has a major impact on conception. 

• Sperm morphology: A semen analysis test is done to identify the abnormalities in sperm shape. 

• pH level: Sperm should not be too acidic or as it can affect the sperm health, thus making it difficult to fertilize the egg. The pH level of sperm must be between 7.2 and 7.8. 

• Sperm motility: The semen analysis test identifies the ability of the sperm to move toward the egg. 

How to prepare for a semen analysis test for male infertility treatment?

Before the sperm analysis procedure, you must not engage in sexual activity for two to seven days, said an infertility specialist. This includes both intercourse and masturbation. This will help ensure that the sperm counts are at the highest level for a thorough analysis. 

Conclusion

To get accurate results from the semen analysis test, follow your doctor’s advice and provide a clean sample. Otherwise, more testing must be done to determine the next evaluation steps.