Where can a man get fertility testing done?

Male Fertility Testing: Where and How to Get Evaluated

Men should undergo fertility testing at a urologist's office, reproductive specialist clinic, or andrology laboratory where a comprehensive evaluation including semen analysis, physical examination, and hormonal testing can be performed. 1

Initial Evaluation Process

The male fertility evaluation typically includes:

1. Reproductive History Assessment:

   • Duration of attempted conception
   • Previous fertility history
   • Childhood illnesses and developmental history
   • Medical conditions and previous surgeries
   • Sexual history including STDs
   • Exposure to gonadal toxins (including heat)
   • Medication use (prescription and non-prescription)
   • Family reproductive history 1

2. Physical Examination focusing on:

   • Penis examination and urethral meatus location
   • Testicular measurement and palpation
   • Assessment of vasa and epididymides
   • Checking for varicocele
   • Evaluation of secondary sex characteristics
   • Digital rectal examination 1

3. Semen Analysis - The cornerstone of male fertility testing:

   • Should be performed at least twice, one month apart
   • Requires abstinence from sexual activity for 2-3 days before collection
   • Can be collected via masturbation or intercourse using special collection condoms
   • If collected at home, should be kept at body temperature and examined within one hour 1

Where to Get Tested

• Urologist's Office: Specialists in male reproductive health 1
• Reproductive Endocrinology Clinics: Facilities specializing in fertility issues 1
• Andrology Laboratories: Specialized labs for semen analysis 1
• Hospital Fertility Centers: Comprehensive fertility evaluation centers 1

Important Parameters Measured in Semen Analysis

Normal values according to guidelines include:

• Ejaculate volume: 1.5-5.0 mL
• pH: greater than 7.2
• Sperm concentration: greater than 20 million per mL
• Total motile sperm count: greater than 5 million 1, 2

Advanced Testing Options

If initial testing reveals abnormalities, additional specialized tests may be recommended:

• Hormonal Evaluation: Measuring testosterone, FSH, and LH levels 1, 2
• Genetic Testing: For certain cases of severe male infertility 1
• Sperm DNA Fragmentation Testing: For recurrent pregnancy loss or failed assisted reproductive technology cycles 1
• Ultrasound with Doppler: For scrotal evaluation 2

Home Testing Limitations

While home testing kits for semen analysis exist, they have significant limitations:

• Limited parameters measured compared to laboratory testing
• Variable accuracy and reliability
• Cannot substitute for comprehensive laboratory evaluation 1, 3, 4

When to Seek Fertility Testing

Men should seek fertility testing if:

• A couple has not achieved pregnancy after one year of unprotected intercourse
• There are known male infertility risk factors (e.g., history of cryptorchidism)
• Female partner has fertility risk factors or is over 35 years old
• The man has concerns about his fertility potential, even without a current partner 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Delaying evaluation: Early assessment can identify treatable conditions
• Relying solely on home testing: These tests cannot replace laboratory analysis
• Overlooking lifestyle factors: Weight, smoking, alcohol consumption, and heat exposure can affect fertility 2
• Using testosterone replacement: This can suppress spermatogenesis in men trying to conceive 2

Remember that male factors contribute to approximately 50% of infertility cases in couples, making proper evaluation essential for appropriate treatment planning.