If a male is aspiring to have a child, he must know that fertility revolves around a 50:50 ratio, half sperm, and half egg. So, there is an equal chance of a failed pregnancy from both the male and female sides. If a couple is having a hard time getting pregnant, it is essential to go for a checkup to eliminate the chances of negative pregnancy due to male infertility.
Infertility in men is one of the most common issues faced by aspiring fathers. It is a global issue and affects more than 17% of the male population of the world.
Factors causing infertility in males include genetic diseases, infections, neurological or systemic problems, trauma, gonadotoxic radiation therapy, and sperm antibodies.
Fertility experts use some of the most effective methods to diagnose the condition. These include-
● Semen Analysis- Semen samples of a male can be collected through masturbating. A doctor asks the patient to masturbate and ejaculate semen into a special container. However, some men prefer using a special condom during sexual intercourse. The sample is sent to the lab for testing to determine sperm quantity, motility, and any other abnormality. It also checks the signs of infections. If the sperm analysis is normal, a doctor can recommend tests for the female partner.
● Transrectal Ultrasound- In this test, the doctor uses a lubricated tube and inserts it into the rectum. It allows them to examine the prostate gland and look for blockages in the semen-carrying tubes.
● Scrotal Ultrasound- This test produces images of the body by using high-frequency sound waves. It can help the doctor see problems in the testicles and other surrounding organs.
● Hormone tests- Hormones like FSH (Follicular Stimulating Hormone) and LSH (LuitenisingStimulating Hormone) produced by the testicles, hypothalamus and pituitary play a major role in sperm production and sexual development. Hormonal abnormalities and problems in hormone-producing systems may cause infertility in men. A blood test can measure the hormone levels to confirm the condition.
● Post-ejaculation Urinalysis- This test determines the backward movement of sperm in the bladder rather than going into the penis.
● Genetic Tests- A genetic disease can decrease sperm concentration. A blood test can show whether changes have occurred in the Y-chromosome leading to abnormalities. Genetic testing can be used to diagnose various inherited or congenital syndromes.
● Testicular Biopsy- This test involves the removal of samples from the testicles through a needle. If the test results show a normal sperm production count, the problem may be caused due to blockages in the sperm transport system.
● Physical Examination & Medical History- Through this examination, a doctor diagnoses infertility by understanding the patient’s medical history and existing genetic problems, if any. He also examines the patient’s genitals to check for signs of infections and injuries.
Where to go for Male Infertility testing?
These days male infertility tests can be performed at home by the male partner. However, you must visit a clinic or the best IVF centre in India to get accurate results. At such places, tests are performed with 100% accuracy so a timely treatment could be provided. By following an expert's advice, the chances of a positive pregnancy can increase, and a couple can become parents of a healthy child.
