A Comprehensive Guide to Full-Service Male Fertility Testing in Fairfax County
When it comes to fertility treatments, conversations almost always focus on the women first. But did you know that male factor infertility is involved in 40 to 50% of all infertility cases?
In this guide to full-service male fertility testing, we break down testing both partners simultaneously as this is the quickest and most effective way to uncover the truth.
Read on to learn what full-service testing includes, what information you can expect to gain from each piece, and why starting early can make a significant impact.
The Importance Of Male Fertility Testing
Male factor infertility is a contributing factor in over half of infertility cases. So why do so many people rule it out from the start?
There are many causes of poor sperm quality, from lifestyle choices to hormone imbalances, physical problems, and even genetics. You can’t know for sure without testing.
And while age and overall health can impact fertility, they’re not always accurate indicators of your reproductive potential.
That’s why we recommend full testing for each member of every couple who comes to us, regardless of how long they’ve been trying to conceive.
What Full Testing Entails
The most basic part of a male fertility workup is a semen analysis. During this test, your provider will evaluate your sperm on four characteristics: count, volume, motility, and morphology.
Motility is how well your sperm can swim, and morphology is the shape of your sperm. Both factors determine if your sperm have the ability to reach and penetrate an egg.
Your semen analysis results will paint a clear picture of your odds of fertilization. From there, your provider will recommend additional testing if need be.
Hormone Testing
Testing for hormone levels is typically the next step if you have below-average sperm production or abnormal semen analysis results.
By taking blood samples to measure your FSH, luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and prolactin levels, your provider can see if a hormone imbalance may be to blame.
Several issues can cause low testosterone or high prolactin. In some cases, your FSH levels can also indicate infertility-related issues with your testes.
Additional Testing
Although semen analysis and hormone levels can identify the culprit behind your infertility up to 75% of the time, our job doesn’t stop there.
If sperm production is low or nonexistent, we can recommend further testing to determine if you have a genetic abnormality or even structural causes for infertility.
Y-Chromosome microdeletion testing and a karyotype are genetic tests that help rule out inherited causes of infertility.
Your provider may also order a trans ultrasound to rule out any physical blockages.
Explaining Your Options
Armed with your comprehensive test results, your doctor will be able to recommend next steps. Oftentimes, adjusting your diet and lifestyle can drastically improve your chances of conception.
But there are medical interventions and treatments available, too. In vitro fertilization (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection, also known as ICSI, is another option for male-factor infertility.
The reality is, male factor infertility is treatable. Understanding your unique situation empowers you and your partner to do what’s needed to start or grow your family.
Begin Your Journey With Male Fertility Testing in Fairfax County, Virginia
Learning more about your fertility begins with a semen analysis. It’s a simple, one-time test that gives us a foundation for understanding your body.
Full service male fertility testing at Annandale Fertility is treated with the same care and attention as every other aspect of your reproductive health.
Contact us online or give our office a call at 703-462-8665 and schedule your semen analysis. We can’t wait to put your mind at ease and get you started on your fertility journey together!