The Male Fertility Program at Penn Fertility Care offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for male infertility. Conditions we treat include male-factor infertility, andrology and male sexual dysfunction.
We provide an individualized approach to care and collaborate with the department of Urology to offer you the most advanced treatments available.
Our fertility experts have extensive clinical experience in male infertility and have particular expertise in microsurgical reconstruction of the male reproductive tract.
Diagnosis and Evaluation of Male Infertility
A standard fertility evaluation at Penn Fertility Care includes a physical examination and analysis of the medical and sexual histories of both partners.
More than 40 percent of fertility cases involve problems related to the male partner, and there are fertility tests designed specifically for male infertility issues. Tests include a semen analysis to evaluate sperm count and sperm movement.
After a standard evaluation, additional testing may be needed to further diagnose and treat you. Our fertility specialists may perform one or more of the following tests:
- Andrology testing.
- Genetic testing
- Microbiology tests
- Other diagnostic testing
Andrology Testing
Andrology is the medical field that focuses on men’s reproductive health.
Male infertility is a complex issue and our expert fertility specialists provide a range of andrology testing including:
- Semen analysis, which measures the number of sperm, sperm function, sperm shape and your sperm’s ability to move independently (motility). This test can determine your sperm’s fertilization potential.
- Sperm immunology testing, which looks for the presence of antisperm antibodies. Semen can cause an immune system response in both men and women that can prevent conception.
- Fructose analysis, which looks for a normal range of fructose in your semen. Fructose is the energy source that affects your sperm’s ability to move on its own.
- Seminal plasma markers, which check for certain proteins that have been identified as possible causes of male infertility.
Genetic Testing
A genetic test for male-factor infertility uses a blood sample to examine your DNA. The test looks for genetic mutations or abnormalities in your genetic code. Your fertility specialist may suggest genetic testing if an andrology test finds very low sperm count, or you’ve experienced more than one miscarriage.
The three most common types of genetic tests for men include the Y-chromosome test, cystic fibrosis test and karyotype.
A Y chromosome test examines whether genetic information that can affect normal sperm production is missing from parts of your Y chromosome.
A cystic fibrosis test looks for mutations in the cystic fibrosis gene. Cystic fibrosis is a genetic condition that mainly affects your lungs, but some forms have been found to affect male fertility.
A karyotype examines the number and order of your chromosomes. It can detect if you’re missing a chromosome or have extra copies of chromosomes.
Microbiology Testing
The presence of a sexually transmitted infections — such as chlamydia and gonorrhea — can cause infertility.
Microbiology testing screens for STIs and other infections (urinary tract infections, pelvic inflammatory disease, etc.), that may affect your fertility.
Other Diagnostic Testing
We also offer hormone evaluations, testicular biopsies and post-coital (after sexual intercourse) urine analysis to check for causes of male-factor infertility.
Partnership with Urology Department for Fertility Care
Penn Fertility care partners with the Department of Urology to diagnose and treat male-factor infertility. Medical and surgical treatment options offered include:
- Scrotal ultrasound
- Transrectal ultrasound
- Endorectal MRI
- Doppler studies
- Vasectomy reversal
- Varicocele surgery (vasovasostomy or vasoepididymostomy)
- Seminal vesicle surgery
- Transurethral resections for ejaculatory duct blockage
For more information, please see Penn Urology.