When searching for the cause of infertility, often many different factors may contribute to the condition, and making an accurate diagnosis may require many tests and is rarely straightforward. When diagnosing infertility in males, the following processes may have to be undertaken.
Physical Examination and Analysis of Medical History: Doctors conduct a physical examination of the scrotal area for any signs of irregularities/abnormalities. Also, detailed questioning about the patient’s medical history which includes past illnesses, injuries, surgeries, and other health issues is conducted. The doctor may also enquire about the patient’s habits that might be relevant to his fertility.
- Semen Analysis: Semen samples are collected in specialized containers in the hospital premises, and this sample is further sent to the lab for testing purposes. The tests reveal infections and abnormalities in the number, shape and movement of the sperm in the sample. Often, multiple tests like these are done to obtain more accurate results.
- Hormonal Testing: A blood test is taken to gauge the presence of abnormalities in hormones produced by the body through the testicles, pituitary gland, and hypothalamus, that might contribute towards infertility in males.
- Sperm Function Tests: These tests evaluate the efficiency of sperm after ejaculation and their ability to survive, attach and penetrate the egg before the process of fertilization.
- Biopsy of Testicles: Samples are taken out directly from the testicular region using a needle, and are examined to check for problems in sperm production. If no problems can be seen, problems of blockages or other issues of sperm transport are checked.
- Genetic Tests: In cases where the sperm count is too low, a blood test is taken to examine the genes of the patient for any abnormality that might be related to infertility, through syndromes that are either inherited or present at birth.
- Urinalysis Tests: The presence of sperm in urine after ejaculation might be a sign that sperm is traveling backward into the bladder instead of going out from the penis.
- Rectal Ultrasound: In this process, the doctor uses a small ultrasound wand into the rectum to check the prostate region of the body for any sign of blockage, that might be hindering sperm transport.
- Scrotal Ultrasound: High-frequency sound waves are used to digitally image the scrotal region for issues such as varicocele and other issues with the testicles.
In some cases, the exact cause for infertility may not be identifiable, However, with the guidance of experts in assisted reproduction like the Nirmiti Clinic, you will be able to undergo effective procedures that are highly likely to result in the conception of your child. Visit www.nirmiticlinic.in and reawaken the hope of parenthood once again.