Male Fertility Testing

Infertility strikes one in seven couples with the problems lying equally between men and women. Sometimes both partners are infertile. Studies indicate that male partners are infertile 20 percent of the time and that both partners have fertility problems 30 percent of the time. The math indicates that men play a 50 percent role when it comes to difficulty with conception.

The Causes Are Many And Varied

A wide range of conditions may cause male infertility. Hormonal problems, such as low levels of thyroid or testosterone or testicular issues, including abnormal growth or development, damage from trauma or infections, may play a significant role. Blockages in the tubes that carry sperm, genital infection, varicoceles (varicose veins) in the scrotum or ejaculation problems affect the flow of sperm in the reproductive organs of a man.

Several diseases cause abnormalities in sperm or chromosomes. Klinefelter's syndrome and cystic fibrosis, kidney disease, cirrhosis and malnutrition all have the potential to disrupt normal function. The use of medications and drugs may cause problems as well. Add environmental issues like toxins, radiation or industrial chemicals to the list and you have an array of possibilities for male infertility. Interestingly enough, in about 50 percent of infertile men, no specific cause is found.

The Preliminary Consult And Testing

When a couple discovers they are infertile, an evaluation of both partners that includes a consultation, physical examination, and complete medical history is performed. The initial testing for a man involves a semen analysis. If everything is normal, no further testing is necessary. The cost for the evaluation and initial test can cost upwards of 200 pounds.

When More Extensive Tests Are Necessary

Depending upon the results, more specialized testing may be necessary, such as ultrasound of the testicles and scrotum, sperm-function testing, genetic tests, or a biopsy of the testicles. Some men make antibodies against their own sperm that attack the egg and prevent fertilization and there is special testing for this type of situation as well. Costs depend upon the test itself. Prices range from 365 pounds for an advanced sperm analysis to 525 pounds for chromosome testing. Ultrasound will cost between 300 and 500 pounds, depending upon the specific type required.

Medical Insurance Is A Real Bonus

Although the primary care physician can begin the process, a reproductive endocrinologist or urologist, usually in a clinic, does the more extensive testing. If testing is in a hospital, there may be a charge for facility usage. Some of the testing may be covered by insurance since the tests can be done as diagnostic testing for other concerns. Generally, health insurance plans will cover the bulk of the costs. However, there are always out-of-pocket expenses that arise, especially if there is a ceiling on the number of tests run for a specific diagnosis.

Male infertility may be diagnosed with a simple semen analysis, or it may require extensive testing to find the cause. It is important to consider the possibilities and make a determination ahead of time regarding the extent of testing and financial investment required.  Check and compare prices with different reproductive clinics and check insurance coverage.