Essential Male Fertility Tests
There are three foundational tests for men to evaluate fertility health, with additional specialized tests available based on initial results.

  • 1. Semen Analysis

    A comprehensive semen analysis provides crucial information about sperm health and function.

    Important Preparation Guidelines:

    Provide the sample at the testing clinic when possible for optimal freshness

    Postpone testing if you have a cold or temporary illness

    Abstain from sexual activity for 2-3 days prior to testing

    Avoid alcohol within 3 days of the test

    Key Parameters Measured:

    Semen Volume: Total amount of ejaculate

    Semen pH: Acidity/alkalinity of the sample

    Sperm Count/Concentration: Number of sperm per milliliter

    Sperm Motility: Percentage of moving sperm and quality of movement

    Sperm Morphology: Percentage of normally shaped sperm

    Sperm Liquefaction Time: How quickly semen turns from gel to liquid form

    Semen White Blood Cells: Indicator of potential infection (not always included but beneficial)

  • 2. Full Thyroid Panel

    A comprehensive thyroid assessment includes:

    TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)

    Free T3

    Free T4

    Reverse T3 (not always included in standard panels)

    Antithyroid Peroxidase

    Antithyroid Globulin

  • 3. Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Testing

    Key STI tests include:

    HIV

    Chlamydia

    Gonorrhea

    Syphilis

    Candida Albicans (if symptoms are present)

  • 4. Vitamin and Mineral Tests

    These nutritional tests are important for overall reproductive health:

    Vitamin B6

    Vitamin B12

    Folate

    Zinc (serum) - particularly important for male fertility

    Vitamin D (serum) - particularly important for male fertility

  • 5. DNA Fragmentation

    This specialized test evaluates the genetic integrity of sperm. Consider this test if:

    Semen analysis shows a high percentage of abnormally formed sperm

    You and your partner have experienced recurrent miscarriages

    Previous fertility treatments have been unsuccessful

    DNA fragmentation testing provides insights beyond what standard semen analysis can reveal, potentially identifying issues that affect fertilization and embryo development.