Male vs. Female Fertility Evaluation: Key Differences

In nature and in reproductive medicine, female fertility and male fertility are each halves of the fertility equation. Men and women are both affected by infertility and struggle to build their families naturally as a result. Sperm production in males is key to their ability to reproduce naturally, while a woman’s cycle is central to their reproductivity. Consequently, the fertility tests to evaluate male and female fertility are different. We shall therefore look at what these are, how long they take, and misconceptions about these procedures.

Male Fertility Testing

The main tests conducted in male fertility testing include hormone tests, a semen analysis, and a DNA fragmentation test. Details on each are below:

Semen Analysis

A semen analysis is used to evaluate the volume of semen, quantity of sperm produced, sperm structure, movement and genetic material.  This is conducted using a sperm sample that is collected by a man masturbating and ejaculating once into a sterilized container. Sperm metrics are not a specific figure, the natural parameters fall within a range in each category. 

Hormone Testing

Hormones are measured using a blood sample. Hormones are what makes us male or female, and are responsible for the development of primary and secondary sexual characteristics. For men, the main hormone is testosterone, supported by luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, and inhibin.

DNA Fragmentation Test

This test is conducted on sperm as damaged sperm DNA leads to improper embryo formation, which could lead to miscarriages repeatedly. Damage to sperm DNA can occur due to several factors such a sickness or a hereditary condition. The female’s DNA (being XX) can compensate for the male chromosome (being XY) to an extent. One example is where the Y factor on the male chromosome is disparately affected by certain hereditary conditions, resulting in female embryos having better survival odds than male embryos. 

Female Fertility Testing

The menstrual cycle and reductive organs’ health are what is tested in female fertility testing. A female’s hormones fluctuate based on the phase of her menstrual cycle and affect whether or not she can become pregnant. An interference in this production can lead to fertility challenges. Another factor is the physical structure of the uterus which includes, a sufficient supply of eggs, fallopian tubes that have no obstruction, and a uterine lining that is developing and being shed as expected. 

Ovarian Reserve Testing

The testing of the ovarian reserve is done by checking how much estrogen is being produced, as well as the number of eggs left inside the ovaries. Follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, anti-mullerian hormone and progesterone are also tested using a blood sample.

HSG (hysterosalpingogram)

This test specifically checks to see if the fallopian tubes may be blocked. If there is blockage sperm cannot reach the egg for fertilization. HSG is done using an x-ray and contrast fluid that placed the uterus. 

Antral Follicle Count (AFC)

Antral follicle count is done to evaluate the number of oocytes remaining in the ovaries. Females are born with these eggs already in their ovaries, and they are released during the reproductive years, at each menstrual cycle. Estrogen is produced from the oocytes, therefore as these continue to reduce in number, so does the amount of estrogen in  the body. 

Comparing Male & Female Fertility Test Procedures

Timeframe and Accuracy

Fertility evaluations are accurate in pointing to the causes of infertility in both men and women. Typically, blood tests will take a few minutes, while ultrasounds and semen analyses will take anywhere between 20 and 30 minutes. A hysterosalpingogram would take about an hour, and if several tests are being conducted then it could take anywhere from a few hours to several days, depending on how comprehensive the evaluation being done is. 

Common Misconceptions

Having outlined fertility evaluations for both men and women, it is of value to address some misconceptions about fertility testing.

Fertility Testing is for Women Only

Fertility testing is vital for both men and women in light of the fact that sperm contributes to half of the equation when it comes to conception. As well, male infertility accounts for about 50 percent of the challenges in infertility cases. Therefore both male and female infertility factors must be addressed for proper diagnosis and proper treatment to be recommended. 

A Regular Menstrual Cycle Equals Fertility

Menstruation occurs when sperm do not fertilize eggs. One can have blocked fallopian tubes and still have a menstrual cycle, because the egg remains unfertilized when the sperm cannot reach it.

Fertility Evaluations are Only for People who Have Been Trying to Become Pregnant for a Long Time

Anyone who has been trying to build their family for even six months without success, could benefit from fertility testing. Fertility testing could also benefit those who would want to have children in the future and would like to preserve their sperm or eggs.

FAQs:

Is male fertility testing less common than female testing?

Yes. Male fertility testing is less common, however including male infertility factors in the equation of fertility helps to find more suitable solutions for treatment.

What does a semen analysis measure?

A semen analysis measures semen volume and consistency, sperm count and motility, as well as white blood cell count and pH. 

Can male fertility be improved after testing?

Yes. Male fertility can be improved after testing through medications, supplements, lifestyle changes, and surgical treatments.

Do fertility tests determine if I need IVF?

Yes. Fertility tests could determine if you need IVF, but this can only be recommended by your doctor, based on your fertility evaluation results. 

How do I book a fertility evaluation?

You can book a fertility evaluation by finding a clinic near you such as any of the Dallas IVF clinics across the country. Schedule a first consultation by phone, or using the online appointment Booking system. Be clear on what you need to do to prepare for the fertility evaluation. Once at the appointment, your medical and sexual history will be evaluated, and you can discuss any concerns you may have. Fertility tests will be recommended on a case by case basis.