A friend of yours has been trying with his partner for a year, without result, and says with a shrug: "It will be fine on my end." Maybe so, maybe not, but you only know once you look. And men still get themselves checked far too late in this process.
Honestly: sperm quality is not a fixed given and not a matter of male pride. Many factors can be influenced, and sperm cells renew over the course of months. That is good news, because it means you can actually do something about it.
What is sperm quality, really?
Sperm quality is about three things: the number of sperm cells, their motility and their shape. The sperm cells themselves are assessed with a semen analysis at the GP or hospital. The hormonal control behind it shows in your blood, via FSH, LH and testosterone. A blood test does not replace the semen analysis, but complements it.
Which factors influence sperm quality?
Lifestyle plays a big role. According to the Dutch public health institute RIVM, smoking and excessive alcohol use are known risk factors for health, and both can also lower sperm quality. Heat (think frequent hot baths or a laptop on your lap), excess weight and certain medications play a part too. Hormonal balance is the engine underneath: FSH, LH and testosterone together drive sperm production.
| Factor | Possible effect on sperm | What you can consider |
|---|---|---|
| Smoking | Can lower count and motility | Quit; the effect builds over months |
| Heavy alcohol use | Can disturb hormone balance and production | Cut down, in consultation with your GP |
| Heat (hot baths, laptop on lap) | Can temporarily slow production | Limit heat sources |
| Excess weight | Can unfavourably affect hormone balance | Address weight gradually |
| Abnormal FSH/LH/testosterone | Can point to control or the testicles | Discuss a blood test with a doctor |
What does a blood test say about the hormonal side?
An abnormal pattern in FSH, LH or testosterone can point to a problem in the control from the brain or in the testicles themselves. A high FSH with a low testosterone can point to the testicles, for example, while a low FSH and LH point more to the control side. A raised prolactin can disturb the balance. Whichever pattern you see, you discuss the result with your doctor, together with a possible semen analysis. Dutch GP guidance (NHG) on subfertility stresses that the man and the woman are examined together, not separately.
What can you do with it?
Because sperm cells renew over roughly three months, lifestyle changes can have an effect over time. Patience is part of it: a change today only shows months later in a new analysis. What is sensible in your case is something you discuss with your GP or a specialist.
One thing belongs here for completeness: Soa Aids Nederland points out that some untreated STIs can cause inflammation that may affect fertility. Getting tested is therefore a level-headed step in a conception journey, even if you have no symptoms.
When is it time to look into it?
A common guideline: if conception does not happen after roughly a year of regular, unprotected sex, then examination of both partners is reasonable. If you are older or there are already signs, it can be sooner. Dutch GP guidance (NHG) on subfertility stresses that the man belongs in the workup just as much as the woman, and that a semen analysis is often a logical first step. A blood test of your hormones can be a useful addition, especially if the semen analysis is abnormal.
Important to stay realistic: a blood test or semen analysis gives information, not a guarantee. Many couples whose first result is disappointing still get good news over time or with guidance. What the best route is in your case is something you decide together with your GP or a specialist.
Further reading
See also trying to conceive is not working: what the man can have examined and the guide male fertility. How testosterone and desire connect is covered in the pillar less interest in sex.
Getting started
The Hormones Man panel maps the hormonal side broadly. If you mainly want to see your testosterone and SHBG, the Testosterone Panel focuses on that. A blood test complements a semen analysis; it does not replace it.
Sources
- Dutch College of General Practitioners (NHG). Guidance on subfertility and the male factor.
- RIVM. Information on lifestyle risk factors such as smoking and alcohol.
- Soa Aids Nederland. Information on STIs and possible consequences for fertility.
Disclaimer
Caliberhealth works with BIG-registered doctors who review your blood results. This article provides general information and is not a substitute for medical advice from a GP or specialist. A blood test is a tool, not a diagnosis in itself. With serious complaints, contact your GP, or call 112 in an emergency.
Autor
Caliberhealth
Dr. Naimi, lekarz wpisany do holenderskiego rejestru BIG, nadzoruje standardy medyczne naszych treści i ocen. Przeczytaj naszą politykę medyczną
