The first study to be carried out on the male is an analysis of the semen. If it is irregular or if there are any concerns that may present a problem, he must be seen by the Andrologist (specialist in male reproductive and sexual matters).
The gynaecologist undertakes all fertility studies on the woman. Once the gynaecologist and the andrologist have evaluated the entirety of the factors involved in the couple’s infertility, specific treatment must be established for the irregularities detected or an indication given of assisted reproduction techniques (inseminations or in vitro fertilizations).
Initial Study of Male Infertility
A study of the male begins with taking down a detailed medical history and a physical examination which may uncover specific problems.
Given that semen may vary from one sample to another, it is advisable to undertake at least two analyses in order to determine whether there are anomalies in the number or quality of spermatozoa.
Normal sperm values according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) are as follows:
The sperm may present problems of mobility (asthenozoospermia), shape (teratozoospermia) or vitality (necrozoospermia).
Once the problem has been determined, the andrologist will indicate the tests required to detect the possible cause of these irregularities. They may consist of blood analysis (hormonal determinations, genetic studies), other semen studies (presence of germs, study of antibodies, selection of best spermatozoids, etc) or image studies (radiography, ultrasound scans, etc).
However, in a large number of male infertility cases, it is not possible to know for sure the cause originating the condition (idiopathic infertility).