Male hormones can play a big part in a couple’s ability or inability to become pregnant. Your fertility specialist may recommend hormone testing as part of the diagnostic testing process to pinpoint why you and your partner struggle with infertility.
NewLIFE Fertility offices around Mobile, Dothan, Alabama, Biloxi, Mississippi, Destin, Tallahassee, Panama City, and Pensacola, Florida, can help you undergo hormone testing.
Why Is Male Hormone Testing Important?
Hormones help control sperm production. If your hormone levels are abnormal, this can disrupt sperm production, leading to difficulty in conceiving. There are treatments available that focus on rebalancing hormones and increasing sperm production.
Increasing sperm production can take time. Sperm require around 2-3 months to mature, so it’s important to conduct hormone testing for men. This helps manage the best outcomes for couples.
Types of Male Hormone Testing
Your fertility specialist may request a series of hormone tests in order to get a full look at your hormonal profile. These full-panel hormone tests include:
- Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) test
- Luteinizing hormone (LH) test
- Testosterone test
- Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) test
- Prolactin test
All these tests can be completed through a blood draw. Your fertility specialist will review all your results with you and your partner so you have all the information you need to proceed with the fertility process.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
FSH is a hormone made by the pituitary gland responsible for sperm production.
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH is a hormone that helps your body produce testosterone. It is also made by the pituitary gland. If you have a rise in this hormone, it can indicate you’re not producing enough testosterone.
Prolactin Test
Prolactin is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland that can impact the sex drive. If you have too much prolactin, your sex drive decreases. This may also lead to other conditions, such as fertility issues, erectile dysfunction, and lack of energy.
Testosterone
Testosterone is a sex hormone produced in the testicles. It is responsible for many secondary functions, including muscle strength, bone density, and hair growth. An unusual decrease in testosterone can cause infertility.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG)
SHBG is a protein that binds two sex hormones. An increased presence of this protein indicates that you have less free testosterone or estrogen available to the tissues. A low level can mean that you have an excess of either hormone.
Schedule Male Hormone Testing Today
If your fertility specialist has recommended hormone testing as part of your fertility journey, schedule an appointment at one of our NewLIFE Fertility offices across Mobile, Dothan, AL, Biloxi, MS, Destin, Tallahassee, Panama City, or Pensacola, FL.
