Initial work-up for couples experiencing reproductive difficulties should include evaluation of both partners in order to gain a more complete picture of potential cause(s).
Please note, at this time, only male partners of female patients may request testing orders/arrangements to be made. This is not something we can arrange for those whose partners are not patients of this practice.
Semen analysis: The male partner is often tested early in the evaluation, and this is a test that is easy to perform and generally of low cost. In 20% of infertile couples, deficits in semen analysis parameters are thought to exclusively contribute to difficulties in achieving pregnancy; in 40 % of couples, male factors are partly responsible.
Semen profile: This is a more advanced sperm test than a semen analysis. It is often used as a follow up to an abnormal semen analysis and is performed when decisions are needed as to whether procedures such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) is appropriate or if in vitro fertilization (IVF) is necessary.