Question 1

What is Infertility in Men?

Accepted Answer

Male infertility is the inability to conceive after one year of regular unprotected intercourse due to male reproductive factors. It is caused by low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies like selenium. The Selenium blood test is the most important test for identifying nutritional deficiencies that impact sperm production and male fertility.

Question 2

What causes male infertility?

Accepted Answer

Male infertility is caused by low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm shape, hormonal imbalances affecting testosterone or follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), varicoceles (enlarged veins in the scrotum), infections, genetic disorders, and nutritional deficiencies like low selenium or zinc. Environmental factors including smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and exposure to toxins can also damage sperm production. Medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and certain medications can impair male reproductive function.

Question 3

What is the best test for male infertility?

Accepted Answer

The Selenium blood test is the most important nutritional test for male infertility because it detects selenium deficiency, which directly impacts sperm production, motility, and overall quality. Selenium is essential for the formation of healthy sperm and protects sperm cells from oxidative damage. While semen analysis remains the primary diagnostic test for evaluating sperm count, motility, and morphology, checking selenium levels helps identify a correctable nutritional cause of poor sperm quality. Comprehensive fertility evaluation may also include hormone testing for testosterone, FSH, and luteinizing hormone (LH) to assess reproductive hormone balance.

Question 4

When should I get tested for male infertility?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you and your partner have been trying to conceive for 12 months or longer without success. Men over 40 or those with risk factors like previous testicular injury, childhood mumps infection, varicoceles, chronic health conditions, or family history of fertility problems should consider testing sooner. If you notice symptoms like erectile dysfunction, reduced sexual desire, testicular pain or swelling, or difficulty with ejaculation, get tested promptly as these may indicate underlying fertility issues.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of male infertility?

Accepted Answer

Male infertility often has no obvious symptoms beyond the inability to conceive. Some men may experience low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, difficulty maintaining an erection, reduced facial or body hair suggesting hormonal problems, pain or swelling in the testicles, or small firm testicles. You might notice problems with ejaculation, including reduced semen volume or difficulty ejaculating. Recurrent respiratory infections can indicate genetic conditions like cystic fibrosis that also affect fertility.

Question 6

Who is at risk for male infertility?

Accepted Answer

Men at higher risk include those over 40 years old, smokers, heavy alcohol users, men who are overweight or obese, and those exposed to environmental toxins like pesticides or heavy metals. Having a history of undescended testicles, testicular trauma or surgery, varicoceles, sexually transmitted infections, or mumps after puberty increases risk. Men with chronic conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or autoimmune diseases face higher infertility risk, as do those taking certain medications including steroids, chemotherapy drugs, or some blood pressure medications.

Question 7

What happens if male infertility is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated male infertility leads to continued inability to conceive naturally, causing emotional stress, relationship strain, and missed opportunities for parenthood. Some underlying causes like hormonal imbalances, varicoceles, or nutritional deficiencies can worsen over time, further reducing fertility potential. Certain conditions causing infertility, such as testicular tumors or pituitary disorders, may have serious health consequences beyond fertility if not diagnosed and treated. Early testing and treatment provide the best chance for natural conception or successful assisted reproductive treatments.

Question 8

Can male infertility be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Blood tests cannot diagnose male infertility directly, but they play an essential role in identifying underlying causes. Semen analysis is the primary diagnostic test for male infertility, evaluating sperm count, motility, and morphology. Blood tests help detect hormonal imbalances by measuring testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin levels. The Selenium blood test identifies nutritional deficiencies affecting sperm production, while other blood work can reveal thyroid problems, diabetes, or genetic conditions contributing to fertility issues.

Question 9

How is male infertility treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment depends on the underlying cause identified through testing. Hormonal imbalances are treated with medications to restore normal hormone levels and stimulate sperm production. Varicoceles can be surgically corrected to improve sperm quality. Nutritional deficiencies like low selenium are addressed through dietary changes and supplementation with selenium-rich foods or supplements. Infections are treated with antibiotics, while lifestyle modifications including weight loss, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, and avoiding environmental toxins improve fertility. Assisted reproductive technologies like intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF) help couples conceive when other treatments are unsuccessful.

Question 10

How can I prevent male infertility?

Accepted Answer

Maintain a healthy weight through balanced diet and regular exercise, as obesity negatively impacts testosterone levels and sperm production. Avoid smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and stay away from recreational drugs. Protect your testicles from injury during sports and avoid prolonged exposure to heat from hot tubs, saunas, or tight clothing. Minimize exposure to environmental toxins, pesticides, and heavy metals in your work or home environment. Eat a nutrient-rich diet including selenium from Brazil nuts, fish, and eggs, plus zinc from meat, shellfish, and legumes to support optimal sperm health.

Question 11

What natural remedies help with male infertility?

Accepted Answer

Increase selenium intake through Brazil nuts (just 2-3 daily provide adequate selenium), fatty fish like salmon and tuna, eggs, and whole grains to support sperm production and quality. Consume zinc-rich foods including oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and lentils to boost testosterone and sperm count. Antioxidant-rich foods like berries, leafy greens, and tomatoes protect sperm from oxidative damage. Regular moderate exercise improves testosterone levels and overall fertility, but avoid excessive intense training which can have the opposite effect. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, or counseling helps balance reproductive hormones and improves fertility outcomes.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Male Infertility Blood Test

What is Infertility in Men?

What causes male infertility?

What is the best test for male infertility?

When should I get tested for male infertility?

References

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