When it comes to the journey of conceiving a child, the process can be unpredictable and sometimes challenging, even if you’ve been diligently tracking ovulation cycles and having scheduled intercourse. Infertility in men is a common concern that can affect the ability to conceive naturally, making it worthwhile to consider investing in a fertility test for men before embarking on the conception journey. By proactively exploring male fertility, couples can gain valuable insights and guidance to optimize their chances of starting a family.
Given the advancement of modern medicine, there are many fertility tests for men available that your doctor can help you out with. Some of these are:
- Semen Analysis: After conducting a physical exam and asking questions about your sexual health, lifestyle, and medical history, you will be asked to provide a semen sample which is taken to the laboratory for analysis .
- Urinalysis: Sometimes, conceiving is difficult, even if your sperm is healthy according to all fertility tests. In this case, the sperm cells themselves may be infertile, a disease known as normozoospermic infertility that can be diagnosed with urinalysis. You’ll be handed a plastic cup at the doctor’s office or the testing location and asked to deliver a tiny, clean urine sample for this test.
- Hormone Testing: When it comes to creating sperm, the hypothalamus, testicles, and pituitary gland collaborate. In the process, testosterone, which is produced in the testicles, works with luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and other hormones. These three significant hormone levels can be checked through a normal blood test.
- Ultrasounds: These check your anatomical structure through imaging to ensure there are no morphological problems. There are two types available:
- Scrotal: A portable probe is used to scan your scrotum during this examination. High-frequency sound waves are used during the scan to look for tumors, infections, and fluid-filled cysts inside the testicles.
- Transrectal: Your rectum is probed with a tiny, lubricated wand. The imaging aids your doctor in examining your prostate and making sure the vas deferens are unblocked. Blockages can be removed surgically.
- Anti-sperm Antibodies Testing: Sperm typically doesn’t interact with your immune system or the rest of your body. However, this defense mechanism may be compromised by injuries, operations, or prostate gland infections. Additionally, your body could develop anti-sperm antibodies when sperm comes into contact with your immune system. For this test, a sample of your semen will be required. The test uses a chemical that only binds to impacted sperm to examine semen for antibodies that battle against your sperm.
Summing it up, besides the above-mentioned fertility test for men, there are many other options like testicular biopsy, genetic testing, and at-home male fertility tests that you can go for. The at-home male fertility test kit available at Kindly Health is an excellent option that could give you a complete insight into your hormonal and reproductive health. Book a test today to know your fertility score.