Have you and your partner struggled to get pregnant for an extensive period of time? About 8% to 12% of couples in the world have trouble getting pregnant. Problems with fertility affect both men and women almost equally. Approximately 9% of men in the U.S. are the infertile partner, and 11% of women are the source of infertility. Both partners can contribute to many cases of infertility. If you think you may be struggling with infertility, there are ways to test for it. You can learn more about the types of male infertility testing available in the sections below.
What are the top causes?
There are a wide variety of factors that can cause infertility in males. Here are some of the most common causes of male infertility:
- Testicular issues — The most common cause of male infertility can be attributed to testicular disorders. Some include varicocele disorder or cryptorchidism. Testicular disorders can negatively affect sperm production, which can make it difficult to achieve pregnancy with a partner.
- Hormonal imbalances — The hormones involved in the reproductive process, including testosterone, can impair one’s fertility if there is an imbalance. If there are any issues with the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid and adrenal glands, hormone imbalances may be prevalent.
- Blockages in the male reproductive organs — If a surgery, infection, or other disorder has caused a blockage in one or more of the tubes in the reproductive organs, this can be the source of infertility for some men.
If you identify with one or more of these common causes, it’s a good idea to consult an infertility specialist.
Are there tests for male infertility?
Since there are many potential sources of male infertility, it’s important to be tested in order to determine the most likely root cause and best treatment. Types of testing available for men experiencing infertility include:
- Semen analysis — Semen analysis involves a medical professional collecting a sample of semen and analyzing it for any irregularities. A doctor will analyze the number of sperm present in the semen, their shape, and which direction they move. They’ll also check to determine if there is any infection present.
- Hormone testing — In cases where hormone imbalances are affecting sperm production or sexual development, this type of test is likely to identify that. This usually involves having blood drawn, which is then sent to a lab for analysis.
- Post-ejaculation urinalysis — Post-ejaculation urinalysis can be performed to determine if a male’s semen is traveling into the bladder. Semen should typically move out through the penis during ejaculation, but during retrograde ejaculation, the semen moves into the bladder. A urine test can determine the presence of any semen in the bladder.
- Genetic testing — In cases where infertility results from a genetic disorder, a blood test can determine the presence of a genetic disorder or syndrome.
Fertility Cloud can test and treat male infertility
At Fertility Cloud, we value shared experiences. We want to help you navigate your struggles and celebrate your victories. Our dedicated team of experienced medical providers offers you compassionate and professional care. Through every step of the way, we’ll do our very best to ensure your comfort and guide you through the fertility process.
Fertility Cloud handles everything remotely, from your direct communication with your doctor to conducting fertility tests. We conduct appointments virtually through live videoconferencing. All you need is a computer, smartphone or tablet to join the call.
We understand that finding convenient, high-quality medical care can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve selected some of the best reproductive endocrinology specialists. Our team can provide you with easily accessible digital services. Every one of our doctors holds board certification and a state license.
If you think you may be dealing with male infertility, we can perform multiple kinds of testing to determine whether this is the case. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions regarding male infertility testing.
Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.
