Trying for a baby but nothing seems to be happening? You are not alone. Male factors contribute to nearly half of infertility cases — yet many men hesitate to get tested.
The good news? A qualified male infertility specialist follows a clear, stepwise approach. Diagnosis usually begins with simple semen and hormone checks before moving to advanced imaging or genetic tests if needed.
If you are researching options for male infertility Dubai, understanding these tests can remove uncertainty and help you take control of the situation.
Let us walk through the eight key investigations — explained in plain English.
1. Medical History and Physical Examination
The first “test” is not a laboratory investigation — it is a detailed conversation.
A male infertility specialist will ask about:
- Childhood conditions (such as undescended testicles)
- Previous infections or surgeries
- Sexual history and function
- Family history of infertility
- Medication use
- Smoking, alcohol, and stress levels
This is followed by a genital examination to look for:
- Varicocele (enlarged scrotal veins)
- Testicular size or asymmetry
- Signs of hormonal imbalance
This step helps avoid unnecessary testing and ensures no hidden risk factors are missed.
2. Semen Analysis (The Foundation Test)
Semen analysis is the cornerstone of male fertility testing.
The laboratory measures:
- Volume of ejaculate
- Sperm concentration (count)
- Motility (how well sperm swim)
- Morphology (shape and structure)
Because results can fluctuate, at least two abnormal tests, several weeks apart, are usually required before diagnosing a sperm problem.
In most male infertility Dubai clinics, this is the first investigation ordered.
3. Hormone (Blood) Testing
Sperm production is hormone driven.
Blood tests evaluate:
- Testosterone
- FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)
- LH (Luteinising Hormone)
- Sometimes prolactin and thyroid hormones
Abnormal results may indicate:
- Primary testicular failure
- Secondary hypogonadism
- Hormonal imbalance affecting sexual function.
A skilled male infertility specialist uses hormone profiles to classify the problem and determine whether medication may help.
4. Post-Ejaculatory Urine Test
If semen volume is extremely low — or there’s “dry ejaculation” — doctors may suspect retrograde ejaculation.
This occurs when semen flows backwards into the bladder instead of exiting normally.
A urine sample after ejaculation is examined for sperm. It is simple, but in certain cases, it explains everything.
5. Scrotal Ultrasound
A scrotal ultrasound uses sound waves to visualise the testicles and surrounding structures.
It helps:
- Confirm varicocele.
- Assess testicular size and texture.
- Detect cysts or tumours.
- Identify possible obstruction.
Many guidelines recommend ultrasound in infertile men because it not only evaluates fertility issues but also screens for testicular health risks.
6. Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS)
When semen volume is very low or acidic, or if there’s suspicion of ejaculatory duct blockage, a transrectal ultrasound may be performed.
TRUS allows the doctor to examine:
- Seminal vesicles
- Ejaculatory ducts
- Prostate
Blockages detected here can sometimes be surgically corrected — offering a direct solution rather than assisted reproduction.
7. Genetic Testing
If sperm count is extremely low (severe oligozoospermia) or absent (azoospermia), genetic testing becomes important.
Common tests include:
- Karyotype (chromosome analysis)
- Y-chromosome microdeletion testing
- CFTR gene testing (linked to absent vas deferens)
These tests help determine:
- The likelihood of retrieving sperm.
- Risks to future children
- Appropriate fertility treatment options
An experienced male infertility specialist ensures couples receive proper counselling before and after testing.
8. Advanced Sperm Testing (DNA Fragmentation & More)
Sometimes routine tests appear normal, yet conception still fails. That is when advanced sperm tests may be considered.
These include:
- Sperm DNA Fragmentation (SDF) testing
- Semen microbiology for infection
- Specialised motility assessments
High DNA fragmentation has been associated with:
- Lower pregnancy rates
- Recurrent IVF failure
- Miscarriage
Results may influence treatment decisions, such as recommending ICSI or retrieving testicular sperm.
How Male Infertility Is Managed in Dubai
In male infertility Dubai cases, evaluation is often carried out in multidisciplinary fertility centres where:
- Urologists
- Andrologists
- Reproductive endocrinologists
work together.
This team-based model ensures accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment.
However, early evaluation by a dedicated male infertility specialist remains essential before jumping into assisted reproductive techniques.
When Should You See a Male Infertility Specialist?
You should seek assessment if:
- You have been trying for 12 months (or 6 months if the female partner is over 35)
- You have erectile or ejaculation problems.
- You have had testicular surgery or trauma.
- You were born with undescended testes.
- You have very low semen volume.
Early consultation prevents delays and reduces unnecessary emotional strain.
FAQ: Male Infertility Testing
How many semen tests are needed?
Usually two, several weeks apart, because sperm parameters can vary.
Is male infertility common?
Yes. It contributes to around 40–50% of infertility cases globally, including many male infertility Dubai evaluations.
Can male infertility be treated?
Often, yes. Hormone therapy, surgery for varicocele or obstruction, medication, or assisted reproduction may help.
Is genetic testing always required?
No. It has recommended mainly in severe low-count or zero-sperm cases.
Should both partners be tested?
Absolutely. Fertility is a shared issue, and both partners should undergo evaluation.
Male infertility is not mysterious — it is diagnosable through structured, evidence-based testing. From semen analysis to hormone profiling, imaging, and genetic assessment, a stepwise approach ensures nothing is overlooked.
If you are concerned about fertility, consulting a trusted male infertility specialist provides clarity and direction. Early diagnosis often opens the door to effective, personalised treatment.
Dr Mahesh K Dhanjee, featured on urologistdubai.ae, remains committed to staying at the forefront of advanced diagnostic technologies and modern treatment strategies. Every patient is heard, respected, and treated with sensitivity — no matter how difficult the topic may feel. Alongside male infertility, he regularly manages paediatric urology, prostatic disease, renal stones, incontinence, renal oncology, and erectile dysfunction.
Taking the first step can feel daunting — but with the right specialist, you will not be navigating it alone.
