Diagnosis Male Infertility
While infertility is often viewed as a female problem, the reality is that men are just as likely to account for fertility problems in a couple as women are. Therefore, it is important that men undergo a fertility assessment when they experience troubles trying to conceive. Before you go for testing, though, you may want to take a look at The Male Reproductive System. This will help you get a better understanding of just what goes on in your reproductive system.
Part of the fertility workup for men includes a semen analysis which will assess the quality of the sperm as well as look for any anti-sperm antibodies. These antibodies are detected through an assessment of the male immunology. Semen analysis can also detect whether a man is suffering from azoospermia. High levels of white blood cells in semen can also be detected by the semen analysis.
Other common tests men will likely undergo during their fertiltiy workup include a sperm penetration assay, which evaluates how well a man's sperm can penetrate a female egg, and an acrosome reaction test.
Once testing is done, there are a variety of diagnosis that a man can receive. Blood tests may show a hormonal abnormality, such as an elevated prolactin level or hypogonadism, while a current or past infection might be interfering with his reproductive sytem. The use of prescription drugs can also signficantly impact a man's fertility.
Other times, there may be structural problems within a man's reproductive system. These problems can inlcude: varicoceles, ductal abnormalities, impotence, and testicular failure.
Some men may expereince retrograde ejaculation. This occurs when there are problems with the muscles or nerves surrounding the bladder neck. Also, men whose seminal fluid is too thick will likely have infertility problems as the thick fluid hinders the movement of sperm.
There are a number of lifestyle factors that can affect a man's fertility. Effects of Drugs and Alcohol on Fertility explains how the use of recreational drugs can be detrimental to your efforts in trying conceive. While we may not think about it, environmental hazards that are harmful to our ferility health are all around us. Learn what you can do to limit your exposure.
