Ulta Lab Tests

Fertility Test for Men

Male Fertility Testing

Understanding Male Fertility Through Laboratory Testing

Male fertility testing can help identify health factors that may influence reproductive function, hormone balance, and overall wellness. While fertility challenges can have many causes, laboratory testing often plays an important role in identifying hormonal imbalances, metabolic conditions, and other health issues that may affect reproductive health.

At Ulta Lab Tests, male fertility-related testing focuses primarily on blood-based hormone testing and general health markers that influence reproductive function. These tests may evaluate testosterone and related reproductive hormones, thyroid function, metabolic health, and other systemic factors that can impact energy levels, sexual health, and fertility potential.

In certain situations, physicians may also request qualitative semen testing after a vasectomy to confirm the absence of sperm in a semen sample. This specific test helps determine whether the vasectomy procedure was successful in preventing sperm from being present in semen.

Because fertility can be influenced by many factors—including hormone levels, metabolic health, and underlying medical conditions—laboratory testing can help provide important information for patients and healthcare providers who are investigating possible contributors to fertility concerns.

It is important to remember that laboratory testing is only one part of a comprehensive fertility evaluation. Physical examinations, medical history review, imaging studies, and consultation with specialists such as urologists or reproductive endocrinologists may also be necessary to fully evaluate reproductive health.

Signs, Symptoms, and Situations That May Prompt Testing

Fertility and Reproductive Concerns

Some individuals may pursue laboratory testing when fertility concerns arise. For example, couples who have been trying to conceive without success for an extended period may begin evaluating potential contributing factors.

Situations that may lead someone to consider laboratory testing include:

  • Difficulty conceiving after months of trying

  • Prior reproductive challenges

  • A history of hormonal disorders

  • Questions about testosterone levels or hormone balance

Although fertility involves both partners, laboratory testing can help identify male-specific factors that may contribute to reproductive challenges.

Hormonal or Sexual Health Changes

Hormones play a critical role in male reproductive health. Changes in hormone levels may influence fertility as well as sexual health and overall well-being.

Symptoms sometimes associated with hormonal imbalance may include:

  • Reduced libido

  • Fatigue or decreased energy

  • Changes in muscle mass

  • Mood changes

  • Reduced morning erections

  • Breast tissue enlargement (gynecomastia)

Laboratory testing can help measure hormone levels such as testosterone and related reproductive hormones that regulate sperm production and reproductive function.

General Health and Metabolic Factors

Male fertility is closely connected to overall health. Conditions affecting metabolism, cardiovascular health, and endocrine function may indirectly influence reproductive health.

Examples include:

  • Obesity or central weight gain

  • Prediabetes or diabetes

  • High cholesterol or lipid abnormalities

  • High blood pressure

  • Thyroid disorders

Evaluating these health markers can help identify broader medical conditions that may affect reproductive health and hormone balance.

Why Laboratory Testing Matters

What Testing Can Help Identify

Laboratory testing can provide insight into several important aspects of male reproductive health and general wellness.

Testing may help:

  • Evaluate hormone levels involved in reproductive function

  • Identify possible testosterone deficiency

  • Detect thyroid imbalances that may influence metabolism and sexual health

  • Assess metabolic health factors such as blood sugar and cholesterol

  • Monitor changes in health markers over time

These insights can support informed discussions between patients and healthcare providers when exploring potential fertility concerns or evaluating hormone-related symptoms.

What Laboratory Testing Cannot Do

Although laboratory tests provide valuable health information, they also have limitations.

Laboratory testing cannot:

  • Guarantee fertility or predict the likelihood of conception

  • Replace a full medical evaluation by a healthcare professional

  • Diagnose structural conditions affecting reproductive organs

  • Provide treatment recommendations without clinical guidance

Results are most useful when interpreted alongside a patient's symptoms, medical history, and clinical evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.

What These Tests Measure

Reproductive Hormones

Hormone testing is often a central component of evaluating male reproductive health.

Common laboratory markers may include:

  • Total Testosterone
    • Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and plays a key role in libido, sperm production, muscle mass, and overall vitality.
  • Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
    • LH helps regulate testosterone production by stimulating the testes.
  • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
    • FSH plays a role in sperm production and testicular function.
  • Prolactin
    • Elevated prolactin levels may interfere with reproductive hormone signaling.
  • Estradiol
    • Although commonly considered a female hormone, estradiol also plays a role in male hormone balance.

Thyroid Function

Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, energy levels, and endocrine balance.

Testing may include:

  • Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

  • Free T4

  • Free T3

Thyroid disorders can influence hormone regulation and overall reproductive health.

Metabolic and General Health Markers

Because reproductive health is closely connected to overall health, providers may evaluate additional laboratory markers.

These may include:

  • Hemoglobin A1c or glucose markers to assess blood sugar control

  • Lipid panel testing to evaluate cholesterol levels

  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) to review liver, kidney, and electrolyte function

  • Complete Blood Count (CBC) to evaluate overall blood health

Identifying metabolic conditions may help explain symptoms such as fatigue, hormone imbalance, or reduced reproductive health.

Post-Vasectomy Spermatozoa Test

Ulta Lab Tests also offers a Post-Vasectomy Spermatozoa Test, which is used after a vasectomy procedure to evaluate whether sperm are present in a semen sample.

This test is qualitative, meaning it determines whether sperm are detected or not. It is commonly ordered by physicians after vasectomy to confirm that the procedure has effectively prevented sperm from entering the semen.

Unlike comprehensive semen analyses performed in specialized fertility laboratories, this test does not measure sperm count, movement, or morphology.

Interpreting Results

Laboratory results are most meaningful when considered as part of a larger health picture.

For example:

  • Low testosterone levels may prompt further evaluation of reproductive hormones.

  • Abnormal thyroid markers may suggest thyroid dysfunction that could influence hormone balance.

  • Metabolic abnormalities such as elevated blood sugar or cholesterol may signal broader health conditions affecting reproductive health.

Because hormone levels and health markers can fluctuate, healthcare providers may sometimes recommend repeat testing to confirm results or monitor trends over time.

Choosing Individual Tests or Panels

Some individuals begin with a focused hormone evaluation, while others pursue broader health testing.

Examples of commonly combined tests may include:

Hormone Evaluation

  • Total Testosterone

  • LH

  • FSH

  • Prolactin

  • Estradiol

Metabolic and General Health Testing

  • Hemoglobin A1c or glucose markers

  • Lipid panel

  • Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

  • Complete Blood Count

Combining hormone and metabolic testing can provide a more comprehensive overview of health factors that may influence reproductive wellness.

 

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Men’s Health Tests Hub

  • Erectile Dysfunction (ED) Tests • Hormone Tests for Men • Thyroid Tests • Diabetes Health • Infection STD Tests • Genetic Disorder Tests

  • Key Tests: Semen Analysis • Sperm DNA Fragmentation (DFI) • Oxidative Stress/ROS • Antisperm Antibodies • Semen Culture • Total Testosterone (AM) • Free Testosterone • SHBG • LH • FSH • Prolactin • Estradiol • TSH • Free T4 • A1c • Lipid Panel (± ApoB, Lp(a)) • CMP • CBC • CFTR • Karyotype • Y-Chromosome Microdeletions

References

  • World Health Organization. Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen (latest edition).
  • American Urological Association and American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Male Infertility Best Practice/Guideline.
  • Endocrine Society. Testosterone Therapy in Men with Hypogonadism: Clinical Practice Guideline.
  • American Thyroid Association. Thyroid Function Testing Guidance.
  • American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association. Cholesterol Guideline—Risk Evaluation.
  • Clinical reviews on sperm DNA fragmentation, oxidative stress, and male infertility evaluation.

 

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The Estradiol (E2) Test measures levels of estradiol, the primary form of estrogen, to evaluate reproductive and hormonal health. It helps assess menstrual irregularities, fertility issues, menopause status, and estrogen-producing disorders. In men, it aids in diagnosing hormonal imbalances. Doctors use the estradiol test to monitor hormone therapy, ovarian function, and conditions affecting puberty, bone health, and overall endocrine balance.

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Also Known As: E2 Test, Estrogen 2 Test
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The Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) Test measures FSH levels to evaluate reproductive and endocrine health in both men and women. In women, it helps assess infertility, irregular periods, menopause, or ovarian function. In men, it is used to check sperm production and testicular function. Abnormal results may indicate PCOS, pituitary disorders, or hormonal imbalance. Doctors order this test to guide fertility treatment, hormone therapy, and overall reproductive care.

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Also Known As: Follicle Stimulating Hormone Test, Follitropin Test
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The LH Test measures luteinizing hormone levels in blood to assess fertility, reproductive health, and endocrine function. Abnormal LH may indicate infertility, menstrual irregularities, menopause, or pituitary disorders in women, and low testosterone or testicular dysfunction in men. Doctors use this test to evaluate ovulation, investigate infertility, monitor puberty disorders, or guide hormone therapy. It provides key insight into reproductive and hormonal balance.

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Also Known As: Luteinizing Hormone Test, Lutropin Test, Interstitial Cell Stimulating Hormone Test, ICSH Test
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The Post-Vasectomy Spermatozoa Qualitative Test checks for the presence of sperm in semen after a vasectomy to confirm the success of the procedure. This post-vasectomy semen analysis is essential to ensure sterility, verify the effectiveness of surgery, and reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy. Doctors use this sperm test to confirm no live sperm remain, providing patients confidence in their vasectomy results and long-term reproductive planning.

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Also Known As: Semen Analysis, Spermatozoa Test, Post-Vasectomy Test, Semen Test
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The Prolactin Test measures prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, to assess reproductive and endocrine health. High prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) may cause infertility, irregular periods, or milk production in women and low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, or infertility in men. Doctors use this test to evaluate pituitary tumors, hormonal imbalance, or unexplained symptoms such as headaches, vision changes, or abnormal lactation.

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Also Known As: PRL Test
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The Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test measures SHBG, a protein that binds testosterone and estrogen, to assess how much active hormone is available in the body. Abnormal levels may indicate PCOS, infertility, low testosterone, liver disease, or thyroid disorders. Doctors order this test to investigate symptoms like low libido, irregular periods, acne, or hair loss and to evaluate hormone balance, endocrine function, and metabolic health in men and women.

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Also Known As: SHBG Test, TeBG Test, Testosterone-Estrogen Binding Globulin Test
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The Testosterone Free and Total Test measures total testosterone and free, bioavailable testosterone in blood for both men and women. It helps diagnose hormone imbalance, infertility, low libido, erectile dysfunction in men, irregular periods, or PCOS in women. Doctors also order it to assess fatigue, mood changes, or muscle weakness and to monitor hormone therapy. This test provides key insight into reproductive, endocrine, and overall metabolic health.

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Also Known As: Bound and Unbound Testosterone, Uncapped Testosterone Test
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The Testosterone Free, Bioavailable, and Total Test measures total testosterone, free testosterone, and bioavailable testosterone, along with sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin. This test provides a complete evaluation of hormone balance in men and women. Doctors use it to assess infertility, erectile dysfunction, low libido, PCOS, fatigue, or muscle loss and to monitor hormone therapy. Results offer key insight into reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic health.

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Also Known As: Bound Unbound and Bioavailable Testosterone with SHBG Test, Uncapped Testosterone
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The Testosterone Free and Total and Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) Test measures total testosterone, free testosterone, and SHBG to assess hormone balance in men and women. It helps diagnose infertility, erectile dysfunction, low libido, irregular periods, PCOS, and abnormal puberty. Doctors also use it to evaluate fatigue, muscle weakness, or mood changes and to monitor hormone therapy. This test provides a comprehensive view of reproductive, endocrine, and metabolic health.

Also Known As: Bound and Unbound Testosterone with SHBG Test, Uncapped Testosterone Test
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The Testosterone Total Male Test measures testosterone levels in men to assess reproductive, sexual, and hormonal health. It helps diagnose low testosterone (hypogonadism), infertility, and erectile dysfunction. Doctors use it to evaluate fatigue, muscle loss, or low libido and to monitor testosterone therapy, hormonal balance, bone health, and overall metabolism.

Patient must be male and 18 years of age or older.
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Also Known As: Total Male Testosterone Test
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The Testosterone Total Test measures total testosterone levels in blood to evaluate reproductive, sexual, and endocrine health. In men, it helps diagnose hypogonadism, infertility, erectile dysfunction, or low libido. In women, abnormal levels may indicate PCOS or hormonal imbalance. Doctors use this test to investigate fatigue, muscle weakness, or mood changes and to monitor testosterone therapy. It provides key insight into hormone balance and metabolic health.

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Also Known As: Total Testostone LCMS Test, Uncapped Testosterone Test
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Male Infertility : Risk Factors, Causes, Signs, Diagnosis & Lab Testing

When trying to get pregnant, many different factors can affect the likelihood that you and your female partner will get pregnant. Your medical history, sperm concentration, and lifestyle can all affect how easy it will be for you to conceive. 

If you think that you might be struggling with male infertility and aren't sure, conducting a few simple fertility tests can help you understand what's going on. By speaking to your health care provider, you can see what's really causing the delay in conception.

This guide to male fertility testing will help guide you through what you need to know about male infertility and tests to see what's going on with your body. Let's take a look at what to know about male infertility tests.

What Is Male Infertility?

Male infertility is classified as any health issue that affects a man's ability to get a woman pregnant. Contrary to popular belief, this is a pretty common issue. In fact, 13% of couples are unable to get pregnant with unprotected sex. 

Male infertility is just as common as female infertility. Luckily, with a simple blood test and some semen samples, most male infertility issues can be easily solved. 

Risk factors for Male Infertility

While anyone can struggle with infertility issues, several factors can make a man more or less likely to be able to naturally conceive children. A few of the more common risk factors for male infertility include: 

  • Drinking alcohol
  • Smoking tobacco or illicit drugs
  • Having past or present STDs and other infections
  • Toxin exposure
  • Excessive weight
  • Overheating of the testicles
  • Trauma or injury to the testicles

All of these risk factors can impact how easy it will be for a man to get pregnant. If you have any of these risk factors, getting a sperm analysis or lab work done can help you figure out what's really going on. 

Causes of Male Infertility

There are many different reasons why men may not have optimal sperm production. Health problems could stop sperm cells from growing or could prevent men from producing a high enough sperm concentration.

Here are a few of the more common causes of male infertility that you should be aware of: 

  • Retrograde ejaculation
  • Lowered sperm count
  • Obstructions in the reproductive tract
  • Sperm disorders
  • Medicines
  • Hormones
  • Varicoceles
  • Blockage in the vans deferens

These are only a few of the many reasons why a man may not be able to get a woman pregnant. To fully understand the reason, a physical exam and lab testing are required to see what's going on.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Male Infertility?

Certain physical signs and symptoms can indicate that you have male infertility. Keeping an eye out for these issues can help you identify early on if it will be difficult for you to get pregnant. 

A few common signs and symptoms of male infertility include: 

  • Ejaculation issues
  • Lumps, pain, or swelling on the testicles
  • Respiratory infections
  • Loss of smell
  • Gynecomastia
  • Decreased body hair
  • Chromosomal abnormalities
  • Low sperm count

Remember, just because you have one of these symptoms doesn't mean that you are necessarily infertile. You will need to get the proper tests done to truly find out whether or not you can have kids naturally. 

How Is Male Infertility Diagnosed?

If you suspect that you have male infertility, there are a few lab tests that you can take. The process of diagnosing male infertility requires several steps. 

To start, you'll undergo a physical exam in which you'll go over your medical history. From there, you'll typically undergo several genetic tests as well to see what else might be affecting your fertility. 

Next, you'll need to take several lab tests. These tests typically include hormonal tests, a semen evaluation, and a urinalysis. With this information, most doctors can tell if you have an infertility issue. 

However, if the doctor can't provide you with a clear diagnosis, he or she may require additional testing. Additional tests include: 

  • Testicular biopsy
  • Ultrasound
  • Sperm penetration assay
  • Anti-sperm antibodies test
  • Semen leukocyte analysis
  • Seminal fructose test
  • Post ejaculate urinalysis
  • Kruger and WHO Morphology
  • Vasography

Each of these tests will tell the doctor something different about your body and what might be going on. Once you've had all the necessary tests conducted, your doctor should be able to tell you whether or not you have an infertility issue.

Benefits of Male Infertility Lab Testing with Ulta Lab Tests

Ulta Lab Tests offers highly accurate and reliable tests so that you can make informed decisions about your health. Here are a few great things to love about Ulta Lab Tests:

  • You'll get secure and confidential results
  • You don't need health insurance
  • You don't need a physician's referral
  • You'll get affordable pricing
  • We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee

With all those benefits, getting a fertility test for men done at Ulta Labs can be a great way to help you combat male infertility and start getting pregnant. And, it's a great way to avoid Vitro fertilization and other expensive pregnancy methods if you don't need it!

Get Started With Male Infertility Tests

Running male infertility tests can be a great way to help you conceive faster and see what's going on behind the scenes. And, it's a way to help rule out other health issues and keep you and your partner safe.

If you're ready to get started with male infertility tests, you're in the right place. Order your hormone lab tests today, and your results will be provided to you securely and confidentially online in 24 to 48 hours for most tests. Take control with Ulta Lab Tests today!