Male vs. Female Fertility Evaluation: Key Differences

It is not uncommon for both men and women to experience challenges in building their families naturally. Male fertility has to do with sperm production, while for females, fertility has to do with the menstrual cycle. The tests conducted to explore fertility challenges differ between men and women.

In this article we shall discuss the main tests done during fertility evaluations for both men and women. As well, we shall touch on the duration of testing and address some common misconceptions about fertility testing procedures.

Male Fertility Testing

Male fertility testing includes a semen analysis, hormone testing and DNA fragmentation testing. Let us look at these in a little more detail below:

Semen Analysis

A semen analysis is done on a semen sample and consists of analysis in three parts, quantity, structure, and movement. The quantity of sperm is measured using the volume of semen contained in one ejaculation. The structure and movement of sperm is referred to as the quality of sperm. Ideally, sperm cells have a head, midsection, and tail. 

The head contains half of the essential DNA matter an embryo needs. The midsection contains the mitochondria which provide energy for the sperm cells to move. The tail is the propeller that moves the sperm cell forward. 

In a semen analysis the sperm count has to be within a certain range, the sperm cells ideally should have all three components with no damage, and they should be able to move not only independently, but also in a forward direction. 

Hormone Testing

Male hormone testing is done using a blood sample. The hormones that support the male reproductive system, and which are generally responsible for his physical appearance can be detected in the blood. 

The main hormones that regulate masculinity and the male reproductive system are testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. These not only regulate the production of sperm, they also support the production of semen, the liquid in which sperm are contained.

DNA Fragmentation Test

DNA fragmentation testing is done on sperm cells. This test is used to determine if the genetic material within the sperm cell is healthy. Sometimes DNA becomes damaged as a result of illness, or some types of treatments. When DNA in the sperm is damaged, it does not bond well with the DNA of the egg, as a result a pregnant person may not carry the pregnancy to term. 

Female Fertility Testing

Female fertility testing is an evaluation that focuses on the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes, all of which are crucial in reproduction.The ovaries contain the supply of eggs necessary for fertilization. The fallopian tubes are where the mature eggs are released into and where fertilization takes place. The uterus is where the embryo implants itself and develops in pregnancy. 

Ovarian Reserve Testing

Ovarian reserve testing is a combination of tests that evaluates the levels of hormones that regulate female fertility, and measures the number of oocytes within the ovaries. In order to evaluate the hormonal levels, a blood test is usually carried out. Typically the hormones that will be tested are the levels of estrogen, progesterone, luteinizing hormone as well as follicle stimulating hormone.

HSG (hysterosalpingogram)

This test is used to check if there is any blockage in the fallopian tubes which my be preventing the sperm from reaching the egg. It is done under x-ray using a contrast agent that is placed in the uterus. The contrast agent spreads through the uterus an into the fallopian tubes and is seen as a brighter area compared to the rest of the body. 

Antral Follicle Count (AFC)

Females are born with their ovaries containing the eggs they shall require in their reproductive years. This is why it is referred to as a reserve. The undeveloped eggs are called oocytes and they develop in tiny liquid sacs called antral follicles. The purpose of an antral follicles count s to see the number of oocytes remaining inside the ovaries. Of note is that the presence of oocytes in the ovaries is what produces estrogen from the ovaries. Therefore a diminished ovarian reserve also results in lowered levels of estrogen in the bloodstream.

Comparing Male & Female Fertility Test Procedures

Timeframe and Accuracy

Fertility testing is quite accurate in determining probable causes of infertility. The actual time it takes to conduct fertility testing depends on the tests being done. Ultrasounds and semen analysis typically take 20 to 30 minutes, a test like a hysterosalpingogram would take about an hour, while blood tests usually take a few minutes. While a basic evaluation may take a few hours, a comprehensive evaluation will be conducted over several days. 

Common Misconceptions

To conclude we shall touch on some misconceptions about fertility testing. The first misconception is that fertility testing is only beneficial to women. In reality, male factor infertility accounts for almost 50 percent of infertility cases. Testing both male and female partners who are experiencing challenges in becoming pregnant is vital to determining the cause and exploring treatment options.

Another misconception is that if a woman has a regular menstrual cycle she cannot experience infertility. A person with blockage in their fallopian tube can still experience regular menstruation because the reason for menstruation is an unfertilized egg. A blocked fallopian tube prevents the sperm from reaching the egg resulting in menstruation.

Again, there is a misconception that fertility testing is only for couples who have been trying to build their families for a very long time. The truth is that if anyone has been trying to build their family for more than six months without success, they could benefit from fertility testing. As well, when someone has plans of building a family in the future, having fertility testing done early can help mitigate any future challenges.

FAQs:

Is male fertility testing less common than female testing?

Yes, indeed it is, in spite of the fact that male factor infertility contributes to almost 50% of the infertility cases. Including male fertility testing in any case of infertility is valuable in accurate diagnosis and evaluating treatment options.

What does a semen analysis measure?

A semen analysis evaluates key factors that impact male fertility, which include sperm count, sperm motility, sperm morphology, semen volume, semen consistency, as well pH and white blood cell count. 

Can male fertility be improved after testing?

Male fertility can be improved though lifestyle changes, supplements, medications, as well as medical or surgical treatments your fertility test results show abnormalities, there are several ways to improve sperm health.

Do fertility tests determine if I need IVF?

Fertility tests could determine whether or not you need IVF. However, this largely depends on the results that are seen. Sometimes patients may simply have to make lifestyle adjustments, others may need a fertility boost which is done using medications, and others may benefit from less invasive treatments like intrauterine insemination. Your doctor will recommend the most suitable path based on your test results.

How do I book a fertility evaluation?

To book a fertility evaluation, find a fertility clinic near you that has a good track record of fertility testing and treatment. Next, schedule a first consultation via phone or using an online appointment Booking system. Ensure that you ask about any pre-test requirements to help you prepare for your appointment. Expect to review your medical history and discuss your concerns with the fertility specialist. They will recommend the necessary fertility tests for you.