There are a number of reasons that keep two people from conceiving. It’s impossible to paint an entire picture with just one test, which is why we provide a range of options.
Using advanced technology and a full complement of state-of-the-art services, The IVF Center – Fertility CARE Clinic, Andrology Laboratory provides accurate diagnosis for treatment of male reproductive disorders in a timely and caring manner.
A certified High Complexity Laboratory Director leads the andrology team, and a licensed medical technologist performs all testing and procedures. The Andrology Laboratory is licensed as a clinical laboratory facility by the state of Florida. For our patient’s comfort, a private specimen collection area is available at our clinic.
This process is easier when you know what to expect. We encourage anyone considering fertility treatments to take a look at the following tests and services for men are available at The IVF CenterSM:
Semen Analysis
Semen analysis refers to looking at semen under a microscope to identify any signs of abnormality. Your doctor is especially interested in determining sperm count, motility (speed) and shape. This analysis is an essential part of any fertility work-up since problems with male sperm account for 40% of all infertility experienced by couples.
The semen analysis is performed in the doctor’s office. You must refrain from ejaculation for 48-96 hours prior to giving a specimen for evaluation. Your sample is usually collected by masturbating and ejaculating into a sterile specimen cup. The container is provided at the time the appointment is made. Your specimen may also be collected at home and brought to the office within one hour of collection.
Analysis of your sperm includes the following:
- Volume (amount of semen)
- pH
- Sperm Count and Motility (speed)
- Strict Kruger Morphology (shape)
- Viability Staining*
- Antibody testing*
Semen Preparation for Intrauterine Insemination
Sperm must be washed before it is placed into the uterus. Sperm washing for intrauterine insemination is routinely performed at Fertility C.A.R.E. A sperm sample may be used from either the male partner or from a commercial sperm bank. (Both kinds of samples are processed in our laboratory.)
Anti-Sperm Antibody Testing
Sperm MAR (Mixed Agglutination Reaction) determines the presence or absence of antibodies in the sperm sample itself.
Fructose screening
Fructose screening evaluates the level of sugars in the semen of the male partner. This test is most often used for men with suspected retrograde ejaculation. Retrograde ejaculation refers to the entry of semen into the bladder instead of going out through the urethra during ejaculation.
Pre-Testing for In Vitro Fertilization
A preliminary test of the sperm sample determines how a patient’s sperm will react to normal processing for assisted reproductive procedures.
Sperm Cryopreservation
While Fertility C.A.R.E. does not operate a commercial sperm bank, routine freezing of sperm samples may be performed for our patients for scheduling reasons during a treatment cycle or to attempt paternity at a later time. Pre-vasectomy patients, or some oncology patients may elect to cryopreserve (freeze) their sperm for later use.