Clinical evaluation and treatment of male factor infertility

Abstract

The work up of the infertile couple should begin after 1 year of unprotected intercourse or sooner if infertility risk factors are present. A thorough history and physical examination are key components of the evaluation and should not be underestimated, as varicoceles and other causes of male factor infertility can easily be identified. The semen analysis is the only laboratory test that should be obtained in all patients. On the basis of the history, physical examination, and semen analysis, the decision to pursue further testing and the type of testing should be methodical and aimed at refining the differential diagnosis. This will allow the clinician to counsel the infertile couple about appropriate management options. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2010.