Male Fertility
If you have been trying to conceive for at least a year, you must get an appointment with your GP to check if there are any problems that may be impairing your fertility. It’s important that both you and your partner are checked.
The male fertility check-up includes a physical examination and male fertility tests. A urologist andrologist may request further investigations to test your fertility.Medical History
The doctor will ask you relevant questions about your medical and sexual history. Questions may include previous surgeries, pregnancies, miscarriages, how long you have been trying to conceive, sex life, medication, symptoms, and lifestyle (including smoking, weight, alcohol, drugs and stress).
Physical Examination
- Weight, to see if you have a healthy body mass index (BMI).
- Blood pressure to make sure it is within the recommended guidelines.
- Genital examination to check for infections or anatomical problems.
Chlamydia Testing
If you’re under 35, chlamydia is the most common cause of inflammation in the testicles and sperm-conducting tubes – and if left untreated it can have a serious impact on your sperm function and fertility.
Semen Analysis
A semen analysis is the first test that gives insight into the quality and quantity of sperm. It examines the density (sperm count), morphology (shape) and mobility of sperm.Scrotal Ultrasound
This test uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images inside your body. A scrotal ultrasound can help your doctor see if there is a varicocele or other problems in the testicles and supporting structures.
Chromosome Analysis
Genetic karyotyping—also known as chromosome analysis—can reveal certain genetic abnormalities. It can be used to confirm or diagnose a genetic disorder or disease; or the testing may reveal that a couple is at risk for having a child with a genetic or chromosomal disorder.Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test
Sperm DNA fragmentation is a term used when there is abnormal genetic material within the sperm. The Sperm DNA Fragmentation test detects the sperm with DNA damage and also tells how much DNA damage each sperm has. It provides information that helps in the clinical diagnosis, management and treatment of male fertility.
Hormone Testing
Hormones produced by the pituitary gland, hypothalamus and testicles play a key role in sexual development and sperm production. A blood test measures the level of testosterone and other hormones which may affect fertility.Post Ejaculation Urinalysis
This test looks for the presence of sperm in urine after ejaculation. Sperm in your urine can indicate your sperm are traveling backward into the bladder instead of out of your penis during ejaculation (retrograde ejaculation).
Testicular Biopsy
This test involves removing samples from the testicle with a needle. If the results of the testicular biopsy show that sperm production is normal, your problem is likely caused by a blockage or another problem with sperm transport.Transrectal Ultrasound
A small, lubricated wand is inserted into your rectum. It allows your doctor to check your prostate and look for blockages of the tubes that carry semen (ejaculatory ducts and seminal vesicles).
