Male IVF Diagnostic Tests
Male fertility issues can be attributed to various factors, and diagnosing these issues involves both general health assessments and specialized tests. We offer a range of cutting-edge tests that can help identify problems such as chromosomal abnormalities, sperm DNA damage, and more. Here’s an overview of the diagnostic tests we offer for male fertility:
- Semen Analysis
Semen analysis is a critical test for diagnosing male fertility problems. It helps assess the quality of your sperm, which is essential for successful conception.
Male infertility contributes to 30%-50% of fertility issues in couples. This test is essential for both diagnosis and treatment. A semen analysis will provide insights into:
- Ejaculate volume
- Sperm concentration (count)
- Sperm motility (movement and swimming ability)
- Sperm morphology (shape and appearance)
- Presence of white or red blood cells
How to Prepare for Semen Analysis
Before the test, you will need to abstain from sex for 3-5 days to ensure an accurate sample. The analysis is typically done before your initial consultation or as part of a fertility assessment.
- Sperm Chromosome Screening
Chromosomal abnormalities in sperm can lead to miscarriage or genetic disorders in children. Testing for these abnormalities helps us understand the potential genetic issues that may affect embryo development.
If you’ve experienced repeated miscarriages, IVF failures, or if you’re over 50, chromosome screening can provide valuable insights. This test is especially important for:
- Couples with repeated miscarriages or failed implantation
- Men with a low sperm count
- Men with normal chromosome patterns but whose embryos show genetic problems
What Does Sperm Chromosome Screening Involve?
This test requires a semen sample. We will freeze your sample, test it for chromosomal abnormalities, and provide the results in a few weeks. After reviewing the findings, we will discuss the next steps, which may include further tests or treatments.
- MAR Test (Mixed Antiglobulin Reaction Test):
The MAR test (Mixed Antiglobulin Reaction test) is an immunological test designed to detect antisperm antibodies (ASA) in a man’s semen. These antibodies target the man’s own sperm, treating them as foreign invaders. This can impair sperm function and contribute to immunological infertility, a condition estimated to account for about 10% of infertility cases in couples.
When Is the MAR Test Recommended?
- Unexplained male infertility.
- Low sperm motility or function despite normal sperm count.
- After testicular injury, surgery, or infection, this can disrupt the blood-testis barrier.
- Recurrent IVF or ICSI failures.
- Hormone Screening
Hormone screening, also known as male hormone profile testing, provides insights into your reproductive health and overall fertility potential. It helps us understand how much sperm you’re producing and whether any medical conditions are affecting your fertility.
Hormone testing is typically recommended for new patients or those with unexplained fertility issues. It helps us identify underlying health problems that may impact your fertility and recommend the most suitable treatment options.
What Does Hormone Screening Involve?
This test involves a blood sample to measure levels of key hormones that impact sperm production, such as:
- Luteinizing hormone (LH)
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
- Testosterone
- Prolactin
- Virology Screening
Virology screening is a mandatory step for all patients planning to use their own sperm for fertility treatment. It helps us identify any viral infections that could impact your fertility or treatment.
We test for common viral infections such as:
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- HIV
- VDRL
A simple blood test is used to screenforthese infections. Knowing whether you have any of these infections allows us to take the necessary steps before starting fertility treatment.
After the completion of your diagnostic tests, we will review the results and discuss the best course of action with you. Depending on the findings, we may recommend additional tests, lifestyle changes, or fertility treatments to improve your chances of conception.
Each test is tailored to your individual situation, ensuring that we provide the most effective solutions for your fertility journey.