Hormones and male fertility
Frequently asked questions
What blood tests are used to investigate male fertility?
What blood tests are used to investigate male fertility?
The key hormonal markers include testosterone, FSH, LH, prolactin, oestradiol, and SHBG. Elevated FSH often indicates impaired sperm production. These tests are complemented by a semen analysis for a complete fertility work-up.
Can low testosterone affect male fertility?
Can low testosterone affect male fertility?
The relationship is complex. Very high testosterone from anabolic steroid use suppresses sperm production. Normal to low-normal testosterone with elevated FSH and LH suggests a testicular problem affecting both hormone and sperm production.
How does FSH relate to sperm production?
How does FSH relate to sperm production?
FSH is produced by the pituitary gland and directly stimulates sperm production in the testes. Elevated FSH indicates the pituitary is working harder to stimulate a poorly responding testis, a pattern associated with reduced sperm count and quality.
Should a man have a blood test before a semen analysis?
Should a man have a blood test before a semen analysis?
Both tests complement each other and ideally should be done together. A semen analysis measures sperm count, motility, and morphology, while hormonal blood tests identify the underlying cause of any abnormalities.