Male Fertility Testing Options

Male infertility is more common than most people think. According to the American Urological Association (AUA) and the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), male factor infertility is responsible—either alone or in combination—for nearly 50% of all infertility cases .

Yet male testing is often delayed. If a couple has not conceived after 12 months of trying (or 6 months if the woman is over 35), both partners should be evaluated.

Testing the male partner is simple, non-invasive, and can often uncover correctable issues. At a trusted fertility clinic in New York City like New Hope Fertility Center, men can undergo semen analysis and consult with our fertility specialists about next steps, thereby eliminating guesswork and unnecessary delays.

According to recent statistics, roughly 1 in 5 couples face infertility, and in up to 50% of these cases, a male factor plays a role. Fertility testing is not about assigning blame – it is about gaining information. With proper evaluation, many causes of male infertility can be diagnosed and, in some cases, treated effectively.

Testing is especially recommended if:

• You have been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success
• You have a history of testicular injury, infection, or surgery
• You experience sexual dysfunction
• You have known health issues that may affect fertility (such as diabetes or hormone imbalances)

A semen analysis is the most common and foundational test for assessing male fertility. It evaluates:

• Sperm count: the number of sperm present in the sample
• Sperm motility: how well the sperm move
• Sperm morphology: the shape and structure of sperm
• Volume and consistency of the semen

This test is typically performed in a lab and requires a fresh semen sample collected after 2–7 days of abstinence. Results help determine whether sperm production, movement, or structure may be contributing to fertility challenges.

While semen analysis is the standard starting point for evaluating male fertility, some cases may require further testing. These tests are not always necessary, but depending on your results and medical history, a fertility specialist may recommend additional evaluation.

Here are some of the most common tests used in advanced male fertility evaluation:

• Hormone Testing – to assess testosterone and other hormones that influence sperm production.
• Genetic Testing – to check for underlying genetic conditions in cases of very low or absent sperm count.
• Scrotal Ultrasound – to examine the structure of the testicles and detect issues such as varicoceles or blockages.
• Post-Ejaculation Urinalysis – to look for signs of retrograde ejaculation.
• Testicular Biopsy – in rare cases, a small tissue sample may be taken to evaluate sperm production directly.

These tests are not always necessary and are typically considered only if the initial semen analysis suggests an underlying issue.

Before your semen analysis:

• Abstain from ejaculation for 2–7 days before sample collection
• Drink plenty of water before providing the sample
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and hot tubs/saunas which may impair sperm production
• Inform your provider of any medications or supplements

Results from a semen analysis are usually available within a few days. Based on the findings, our fertility providers can recommend treatment or additional diagnostics.

Depending on the results of your testing, treatment options may include:

• Lifestyle changes: improving diet, sleep, and reducing consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana.
• Supplements: – targeted vitamins or antioxidants to support sperm health.
• Medical or surgical treatment: addressing hormone imbalances or correcting physical obstructions.
• Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): such as IUI or IVF as advised by fertility specialist

At New Hope Fertility, we offer personalized fertility treatment for both individuals and couples. Our fertility specialists reviews all testing results carefully and walk you through the next steps based on your specific situation.