OVERVIEW
Why Male Fertility Matters
Sperm-related factors contribute to many couples’ difficulty conceiving, either alone or together with female factors. That is why both partners are usually evaluated from the start.
A semen analysis is simple and non-invasive, and the results help your physician recommend the right next step — from lifestyle changes to IUI or IVF with ICSI.
WHO MAY CONSIDER AN EVALUATION
Is a Male Fertility Evaluation Right for You?
Fertility concerns can affect anyone. An evaluation is a simple, important step whenever a couple is having difficulty conceiving or planning ahead.
Trying to Conceive Without Success
Abnormal Semen Analysis Results
Low Sperm Count or Motility
History of Vasectomy
Erectile or Ejaculation Concerns
Sperm Freezing Before Medical Treatment
What Does a Semen Analysis Measure?
A semen analysis is usually the first test in a male fertility evaluation. The sample is evaluated in our andrology laboratory, and your physician reviews the results with you.
- Count — how many sperm are present
- Motility — how well sperm move
- Morphology — the shape of sperm
- Volume & other factors — which can point to other causes
THE PROCESS
Male Fertility Care, Step by Step
Male fertility care often starts with a single semen analysis and grows from there only if needed. Your physician will explain each result and how it fits into your family-building plan.
Schedule a Male Fertility EvaluationStage One
Semen Analysis
A semen analysis is usually the first test. The sample is evaluated in our andrology laboratory, and you will be asked to avoid ejaculation for a few days beforehand.
The analysis looks at:
- Count how many sperm are present
- Motility how well sperm move
- Morphology the shape of sperm
- Volume and other factors which can point to other causes
Because results can vary from sample to sample, a repeat test may be recommended before drawing conclusions.
Stage Two
Medical Evaluation
If results are abnormal, your physician reviews your health history — including medications, prior surgeries and lifestyle factors — and may order hormone or genetic tests.
A referral to a urologist who specializes in male reproduction may be recommended for a physical exam, ultrasound or treatment of conditions such as a varicocele.
Stage Three
Treatment Options
The right approach depends on the cause and on your partner’s fertility evaluation.
Options may include:
- Lifestyle changes or medications where a cause can be addressed
- IUI washed sperm placed in the uterus, for mild concerns
- IVF with ICSI a single sperm injected into each egg, often used for low count or motility
- Donor sperm an option some patients consider
Stage Four
Sperm Freezing & Retrieval
Sperm can be frozen before medical treatments that may affect fertility, before a vasectomy, or simply for convenience on the day of an IVF retrieval.
If no sperm are found in the ejaculate, sperm may still be retrieved surgically in coordination with a urologist and used for IVF with ICSI.
Every plan is personal. Your care team will let you know which steps apply to you and when.
Male Fertility Costs
Costs depend on the tests and treatments recommended — from semen analysis to IUI, IVF with ICSI or sperm freezing. We provide a personal estimate after your consultation.
Some plans cover male fertility testing. Our team can help you review your benefits, and monthly payment plans are available through our financing partner, CapexMD.
Explore financing optionsYOUR CARE TEAM
Care That Includes Both Partners
Our physicians look at fertility as a shared journey and explain every result clearly. Semen analysis and sperm preparation take place in our onsite andrology laboratory. Embryology work is done in our onsite, open-concept IVF laboratory, led by a director who previously led a lab ranked #1 in the US for IVF success.
Consultations are available across our Southern California locations in Torrance, Beverly Hills, Corona and Irvine, with care in English and Mandarin.
Meet our team
FAQ
Male Fertility Questions
How common is male infertility?
Sperm-related factors contribute to a significant share of infertility cases, either alone or together with female factors. That is why both partners are usually evaluated.
How do I prepare for a semen analysis?
You will usually be asked to avoid ejaculation for a few days before the test. Your care team will give you exact instructions for collection and timing.
Can lifestyle affect sperm health?
Factors such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, heat exposure, some medications and overall health may affect sperm. Your physician can discuss changes that may help.
Can ICSI help with a low sperm count?
ICSI, where a single sperm is injected into each egg during IVF, is often used when sperm count or motility is low. Your physician will discuss whether it fits your situation.
What if there are no sperm in the semen?
This is called azoospermia. Depending on the cause, sperm may be retrieved surgically for use in IVF with ICSI. Donor sperm is another option some patients consider.
Does insurance cover male fertility care?
Coverage varies by plan. Check with your insurer about semen analysis, specialist visits and treatment. Our team can help you review your benefits.
Have another question? Contact our team or call +1 (424) 212-4087.
Ready to Schedule a Male Fertility Evaluation?
Schedule a consultation with one of our fertility specialists in Southern California.