Male Fertility Work Up

This is the cornerstone of male fertility evaluation. It provides information about male reproductive function and fertility potential. It assesses:

• Sperm count (number of sperm per milliliter)

• Motility (movement and swimming ability)

• Morphology (shape and structure)

• Volume and pH

• Presence of white blood cells or infection indicators

A normal semen analysis typically shows:

• Volume: 1.5–6 mL

• Sperm concentration: ≥15 million/mL

• Motility: ≥40% moving sperm

• Morphology: ≥4% normal forms

Abnormal results may indicate conditions such as oligospermia (low count), asthenozoospermia (poor motility), or teratozoospermia (abnormal shape).

Why Should I Undergo a Semen Analysis Test?

If you and your wife/partner have been unable to conceive after one year of regular unprotected intercourse (or six months if your wife/partner is over 35 years old), a semen analysis is recommended.

Preparing for the Semen Analysis Test: Key Considerations

Before undergoing the test, keep the following guidelines in mind:

1. Abstain from Sexual Intercourse: Refrain from sexual activity for two to five days before the test.
2. Temperature Sensitivity: Avoid exposure to high temperatures for 2–3 months before the test if your work environment involves heat exposure or if you've had a recent fever.

How Is the Semen Analysis Test Conducted?

The process involves semen production, and the preferred method is through masturbation. At Viva, we understand that collecting a semen sample can be uncomfortable for some men. To address this, we offer private and comfortable semen specimen production rooms. Alternatively, you can produce the sample at home, but ensure timely delivery to our clinic within one hour of production.

My Semen Analysis Tests are Abnormal. What Next?

When your semen analysis results come back as abnormal, it's essential not to panic. One abnormal result doesn't necessarily mean you're infertile. Here's what you need to know and what steps to take next:

1. Our specialist may recommend repeating the semen analysis after a 3‑ to 6‑month interval. Sperm parameters can fluctuate due to several factors, including recent illness, stress or anxiety during the test, or not abstaining from ejaculation beforehand. Two abnormal results are required to reliably indicate a persistent issue.

2. If poor results persist, you will be referred to reproductive urologists and reproductive endocrinologists for a comprehensive evaluation. They will assess your case in detail to identify the cause of your abnormal semen parameters and discuss the available treatment options.

    

Hormones play a vital role in sperm production. Blood tests measure:

• FSH (Follicle‑Stimulating Hormone) – regulates sperm production

• LH (Luteinizing Hormone) – stimulates testosterone secretion

• Testosterone – essential for sperm development and libido

• Prolactin and Estradiol – may affect sexual function and sperm quality

• Inhibin B: This peptide hormone is produced by the Sertoli cells in the testes. Abnormal levels of inhibin B can indicate disruptions in testicular function and sperm production.

• Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH): Produced by Sertoli cells, AMH reflects testicular reserve. Abnormal AMH levels may indicate loss of Sertoli cells and reduced sperm production capacity.

Abnormal hormone levels can signal testicular dysfunction or pituitary gland disorders.

A non‑invasive imaging test used to detect:

• Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)

• Testicular cysts or masses

• Blockages in the vas deferens or epididymis

Varicocele is one of the most common correctable causes of male infertility.

Recommended when sperm count is extremely low or absent. It screens for:

• Y‑chromosome microdeletions

• Klinefelter syndrome (XXY)

• CFTR gene mutations (linked to congenital absence of vas deferens)

Genetic results help guide treatment options such as ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection) or donor sperm.

Tests for bacterial or viral infections that may impair sperm function or cause inflammation. Common pathogens include Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma, and Mycoplasma species.

Used when semen volume is very low or absent, to check for retrograde ejaculation — a condition where semen flows backward into the bladder instead of exiting through the urethra.

These specialized tests assess sperm health beyond basic parameters:

• DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) – measures sperm DNA integrity

• Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) – evaluates oxidative stress

• Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay (SCSA) – analyzes chromatin stability

High DNA fragmentation can reduce fertilization and embryo development rates, even with IVF.

In addition, several routine assessment tests are essential for overall health and fertility. They include:

• Blood Group and Rh Factor: Determining blood type and Rh factor helps assess compatibility between partners and identify potential risks during pregnancy.

• Genotype: Genotype testing identifies genetic variations that may affect fertility or reveal inherited conditions.

• Anti‑HIV and Anti‑HCV: Screening for HIV and hepatitis C is crucial for the well‑being of both partners and for safe fertility treatment.

• VDRL (Venereal Disease Research Laboratory): This test detects syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection that can impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes.

• HBsAg (Hepatitis B Surface Antigen): Screening for hepatitis B helps prevent transmission and supports safe reproductive care.

If you’re travelling from outside Abuja, Nigeria. Consider booking  morning appointment allows you to complete your fertility work‑up on the same day, saving you time and reducing the need for multiple trips.

Results from male fertility investigations guide treatment strategies such as:

• Lifestyle modification (diet, exercise, avoiding smoking/alcohol)

• Medical therapy (hormonal correction, antioxidants, infection treatment)

• Surgical intervention (varicocele repair, sperm retrieval procedures)

• Assisted reproductive techniques (IUI, IVF, ICSI)

• Male fertility investigations are essential for understanding the full picture of reproductive health. They not only identify potential causes of infertility but also open pathways to effective treatment and hope for conception.

  At Viva Fertility Clinic, we provide comprehensive diagnostic services and compassionate care — empowering couples to take informed steps toward parenthood.