Fertility Evaluation for Men
Because 40% of fertility problems are due to male factor, it is crucial for men to have a fertility evaluation. We recommend that you have a basic fertility evaluation prior to seeing a fertility specialist even if one cause of infertility, such as blocked fallopian tubes, has already been found.
Nearly 20% of couples have both a sperm factor and a female factor.
The Genesis Andrology Lab provides specialized sperm testing to help determine the quantity and quality of your sperm. Your doctor can use this information, along with the results of other infertility investigations, to plan the best course of treatment for you as a couple.
Our lab exceeds the rigorous World Health Organization standards and is one of the most advanced labs of its kind in British Columbia. Because of the exceptionally high standards of our lab, community doctors use Genesis as a reference laboratory for sperm results. We provide a complete range of sperm testing, including:
- Semen profile/screen
- Antisperm antibody screen
- Trial wash
Your doctor might also recommend the following testing to assess your fertility and prepare for pregnancy:
- Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV
Semen Profile/Screen
What is done?
We do a structured analysis of your sperm sample to determine how many sperm are in the semen, how many are alive, and how many are moving. We also do a detailed and accurate assessment of sperm shape or morphology.
Who is it for?
Men undergoing infertility investigation, and those with abnormalities like low sperm count or abnormal morphology on a screening test from a community lab.
Cost: $100
Antisperm Antibody Screen
What is done?
This test includes a Semen Profile (see above) plus a screen for antisperm antibodies.
Some men make antibodies against their own sperm, especially after a vasectomy, testicular trauma, or as a cross-reaction with certain bacteria. Antibodies bind onto the surface of the sperm and can make the sperm clump together. This can interfere with sperm movement through the woman’s reproductive tract, or stop the sperm from binding to the egg.
While there is no effective treatment to stop antisperm antibodies from forming, their effects can be bypassed by injecting a single sperm directly into the egg with Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI).
Who is it for?
Men who have low motility or clumping noted on previous sperm tests, and those with a history of vasectomy reversal, testicular trauma, or urogenital infections such as prostatitis or epididymitis.
Cost: $150
Trial Wash
What is done?
This test includes a Semen Profile, an Antisperm Antibody screen, and a Trial Wash to ensure that we can get enough good quality sperm from the sample for use in treatments such as intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF) or ICSI.
Some samples with mild abnormalities may be suitable for IUI or IVF, while in other cases, our laboratory may recommend ICSI, which is the injection of a single sperm directly into each egg, in order to enhance fertilization.
Who is it for?
Men who are contemplating assisted conception procedures such as IUI, IVF or ICSI.
Cost: $250
HOW DO I BOOK THE TEST?
Phone Genesis Fertility Centre during office hours (Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm) to make an appointment. Only a limited number of specialized sperm tests are performed each day, and scheduling is necessary to allow the Andrology Laboratory the required time to perform the tests properly.
HOW DO I PROVIDE THE SEMEN SAMPLE?
When you arrive at Genesis for your appointment, you will be asked to provide your basic personal information. You will then be directed to a private room to produce a semen specimen. You will give the specimen to one of our laboratory technicians who will then analyze the sperm. After analysis, your sperm sample will be destroyed.
We would prefer that you collect the specimen on site in one of our private collection rooms. However, you may also collect the specimen at home if it can be in our laboratory within 30 minutes after it is produced, and if it can be kept warm in an inside pocket during transport. Please inform us if you are planning to bring the specimen from home so that the lab staff can be prepared.
To obtain the most meaningful results, please abstain from ejaculation for at least two days, and for no more than five days before your appointment.
WHEN WILL MY RESULTS BE AVAILABLE?
The detailed morphology assessment takes several days to complete. The final test results should be available to your doctor about a week after your test appointment. Due to the confidential and often sensitive nature of these results, please be advised that our staff cannot release the results to you over the telephone. Please arrange an appointment with the doctor who ordered the tests to discuss and interpret the results.
how are the results used?
Your doctor can use this information, along with the results of other infertility investigations, to plan the best course of treatment for you as a couple.
FEES AND CANCELLATIONS
Specialized sperm tests are not available through general community laboratories, and they are not insured services. However, the fees are tax-deductible medical expenses. The antisperm antibodies and trial wash require an extensive setup on the day prior to the test. These two tests therefore require a 50% booking deposit that is non-refundable if you cancel later than 12:00 noon on the day prior to your test.
Infertility consultations are covered by MSP.
confidentiality
All services are provided in a completely discreet and confidential environment.