integrated male fertility services
Male Fertility
evaluations for male factor infertility
Male fertility evaluations
Male infertility evaluations are important because they can help determine the cause of infertility and guide the selection of appropriate treatment options. Infertility is a common issue and male infertility contributes to approximately 50% of all infertility cases. By performing a comprehensive evaluation, we can identify potential issues, such as sperm abnormalities or hormonal imbalances, and develop a personalized treatment plan to improve fertility outcomes and help our patients bring home a healthy baby.
Early evaluation and treatment can improve the chances of successful conception and increase the chances of having a healthy pregnancy.
Integrated Male Infertility Services and Treatments
We have long-standing relationships with several expert local male reproductive urologists as well as our in-clinic partner, Posterity Health. Posterity Health serves all patients with Progyny insurance as well as any other interested male infertility patient. Your primary fertility provider will provide you with a list of physician options and recommendations when building your treatment plan.
Male Fertility Assessment (Sperm)
Semen Analysis and Baseline Assessment: The first step in assessing male fertility.
The first step in assessing sperm health is a semen analysis and Baseline Assessment. The assessment is completed by AFC.
This evaluation Includes:
- An in-clinic semen analysis
- If appropriate, a referral for a telehealth and/or in-person appointment with a male fertility urology specialist to review your results and create a follow-up plan.
- Access to digital male fertility education materials
- Lifestyle and behavior recommendations to improve sperm quality
You’re not just getting your semen analysis results, you’re receiving specialized advice and expert information on male fertility issues in an easy, convenient, and reliable way.
Male Fertility Services by Posterity Health
As a benefit to AFC patients, Posterity Health can provide male fertility services and treatments within our clinic, offering a seamless care experience for patients. Posterity Health is a center of excellence for male fertility care in the Progyny Healthcare Network and allows us to offer both Progyny patients and non-Progyny patients options for personalized and integrated care for all pieces of the fertility puzzle.
Learn more about Posterity Health here.
Male Fertility Workup
The Male Fertility Workup is designed for males with an abnormal semen analysis and provides a comprehensive and personalized approach to evaluating your reproductive health. The Male Fertility Workup is performed by the urologist and includes:
- An initial evaluation
- A physical exam or ultrasound
- And a treatment plan
This workup will help us identify any contributing factors to your abnormal semen analysis, which may include:
- Lifestyle and behavioral habits
- Hormonal imbalances
- Medication side effects
- Genetic conditions
- Medical conditions
- Previous surgeries
After the initial evaluation, your male fertility specialist will determine if and what additional diagnostic testing may be necessary. This will help us create your Male Fertility Treatment Plan. The initial evaluation can be completed either in-person or virtually.
At the end of your Male Fertility Workup, you'll have a clear, defined plan to assist you and your partner in realizing a successful pregnancy. The outcome of the workup will provide you with the information and guidance you need to take the next step towards starting a family.
Male Fertility Services For All Patients
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (Sperm)
Numerous factors may contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL), such as hormonal issues, egg quality, or uterine lining. Sperm quality can also be a major contributing factor for RPL. In a majority of cases, factors from both partners contribute to pregnancy loss. The Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) Consult is for couples who have suffered at least two miscarriages or had one failed IVF cycle. This evaluation determines if there is a male factor contributing to RPL.
Second Opinions
For males with fertility issues who are looking for additional treatment options or want a second opinion to ensure they’re on the right path.
Fertility Preservation (Sperm Freezing)
For people who want to determine if they should freeze their sperm prior to cancer treatment, vasectomy, gender affirmation or simply want to get ahead of sperm deterioration associated with aging.
Gender Affirmation Care
For people starting or considering gender affirmation care who want to preserve their fertility for the future.
Procedures
- Percutaneous surgical sperm retrieval for IVF (PESA or TESE)
- Testicular Microdissection
- Vasectomy Reversal
- Varicocele and Bilateral Varicocele Repairs
Advanced Fertility Care
Male Infertility FAQ
How common is male infertility?
Male infertility is a relatively common issue, affecting approximately 10-15% of couples trying to conceive.
When should someone seek a male fertility evaluation?
A man should seek a fertility evaluation if he and his partner have been trying to conceive for over a year without success. Additionally, if there are any known risk factors for infertility, such as a history of testicular injury or treatment for cancer, a man should seek evaluation sooner. It is important to remember that fertility can decline with age and seeking evaluation early can increase the chances of successful treatment. Consulting a doctor can also help determine the underlying cause of infertility and guide appropriate treatment. Read more on our blog Why Male Fertility Evaluations Are So Important.
What causes male infertility?
Male infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal imbalances, genetic disorders, lifestyle factors, structural problems with the reproductive system, and medical conditions such as diabetes or infections.
How is male infertility diagnosed?
Male infertility is usually diagnosed through a combination of a physical exam, medical history review, and tests such as a semen analysis, hormone tests, genetic testing, or imaging studies.
Is age a factor in male infertility?
Yes, age can play a role in male infertility. As men age, the quantity and quality of their sperm can decline, which can make it more difficult to conceive.
Can male infertility be treated?
Yes, many cases of male infertility can be treated with medical or surgical interventions. Treatment options may include medication, lifestyle changes, surgical procedures, or assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Can lifestyle factors affect male fertility?
Yes, certain lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of exercise can all have a negative impact on male fertility. Additionally, exposure to environmental toxins, such as pesticides and heavy metals, can also affect sperm quality and fertility. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding exposure to harmful substances can help improve fertility.
What’s a semen analysis?
A semen analysis is a test that evaluates the quality and quantity of a man's semen and sperm. During the test, a sample of semen is collected and evaluated in a laboratory for factors such as volume, pH, concentration of sperm, motility of sperm, and the number and shape of sperm. This information helps determine if a man has any issues with fertility and, if so, what may be causing the issue. A semen analysis is a common first step in the evaluation of male infertility and is often performed as part of a larger fertility evaluation. The results of a semen analysis can help guide further testing and treatment options.
Advanced Fertility Care
Posterity Health Provider & Services FAQ
What does the Digital Health Platform provide?
Patients of Posterity Health are provided access to Posterity’s Digital Health Platform, which provides education on a broad range of topics, including the anatomy of the male and female reproductive systems, ovulation tracking and identifying the fertile window, and various factors that can affect fertility.
What’s involved in the Male Fertility Workup?
Our Male Fertility Workup includes an Initial Evaluation, a physical exam or ultrasound, and a Personalized Treatment Plan.
Starting with the Initial Evaluation, your male fertility specialist will take a closer look at your semen analysis results and delve into various aspects of your life and health. This will involve filling out a comprehensive questionnaire, which will cover topics such as your medical and reproductive history, your partner's history, and other factors that may impact your sperm and fertility.
During a telehealth appointment, the specialist will examine this information in detail and assess your semen analysis in the context of your personal health and background. The objective is to pinpoint any underlying causes behind your abnormal semen analysis, which could include lifestyle habits, hormonal imbalances, medication side effects, genetic conditions, medical issues, or prior surgeries.
Based on the identified contributing factors, the specialist will determine if further diagnostic testing is required, At the end of the evaluation you will receive a Personalized Treatment Plan.
What’s a Recurrent Pregnancy Loss Consult and Treatment?
Each RPL consultation is specialized to the personalized history and needs of the male partner. Our RPL consult and treatment includes the following services:
- A thorough examination of your personal background
- An in-depth analysis of your reproductive background
- A physical examination or scrotal ultrasound examination
- Diagnostic tests as deemed necessary (such as semen analysis or DNA fragmentation testing)
- A comprehensive overview of our findings and personalized recommendations for a treatment plan
What’s included in Male Fertility Preservation Treatment?
Our sperm preservation package is designed to be educational, supportive, and tailored to meet your specific needs. It offers three essential services in a safe, affordable, and easily accessible manner:
- Fertility Preservation Introduction
- Sample Collection, Evaluation, & Testing
- The option to cryopreserve your sperm