Reproductive Hormone Test to Have Children
To find out the level of male reproductive hormones, a blood test can be conducted. What kind of hormone tests can be done for men? Hormone tests can be carried out to understand general health conditions, infertility examinations, rhesus blood tests, to tests for infectious diseases. Not only conducted on women, hormone tests can also be done on men.
Blood Test for Male Reproductive Hormones
The hormones involved in male reproduction are produced by the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, and testes, and they play a crucial role, including in sperm production. Therefore, abnormalities in the hormonal system can lead to infertility issues.
According to dr. Tiara Kirana, Sp.And, a specialist in andrology from Bocah Indonesia, there are several types of reproductive hormones in men, namely testosterone, Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), prolactin, and estradiol.
“There are a few, one being testosterone, which is responsible for the maturation process of sperm. There are LH and FSH hormones which play a role in determining the function of the testes. There is the prolactin hormone, which, if its levels are too high, can decrease testosterone levels, and also estradiol, which, if its balance with testosterone is disturbed, can also affect the quality of sperm,” said dr. Tiara.
Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
The reproductive hormone follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced in the pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland in the brain. FSH plays a role in the development of a person’s sexual characteristics. In men, this hormone controls sperm production and the development of reproductive organs.
Tanya Ferly tentang Promil?
Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
This reproductive hormone is also produced in the pituitary gland. Luteinizing hormone (LH) works in conjunction with FSH. In men, it stimulates the production of testosterone, which is crucial for sperm production.
Testosterone
Both men and women have testosterone, but levels are higher in men. Testosterone is responsible for bone density, sex drive, sperm production, and muscle mass. This hormone significantly affects physical and emotional changes in men.
Prolactin
Excessive levels of the hormone prolactin can lead to erectile dysfunction in men and decreased sex drive.
Estradiol
Imbalances between estradiol and testosterone levels can affect sperm quality.
Male Reproductive Health Examinations Beyond Blood Tests
Beyond hormone testing, various tests can be conducted to assess a man’s reproductive health and fertility, including sperm analysis and genetic testing.
Sperm Analysis
Although referred to as sperm analysis, doctors will analyze semen, which contains sperm. The semen sample collected from the patient will be analyzed by the doctor to measure the number, shape, and movement of the sperm.
Physical Examination and Medical History
In this examination, the doctor will inspect the genitals and ask a series of questions to check for chronic health issues, diseases, injuries, and even surgical history.
Scrotal Ultrasound
This examination helps the doctor see if there are varicoceles or other problems with the testes and other organs supporting the reproductive system. This examination is usually conducted if further investigation is needed.
Genetic Testing
This test is conducted to identify chromosomal abnormalities that could lead to a low sperm count or even a complete absence of sperm.
This concludes the explanation related to blood tests for male reproductive hormone examination. If you wish to undergo fertility testing, please visit the nearest fertility clinic immediately. Issues with the reproductive organs can make it difficult to achieve pregnancy.
This article has been medically reviewed by Dr. Chitra Fatimah.
Source:
- Pelzman, DL., Hwang, K. (2021). Genetic testing for men with infertility: techniques and indications. Transl Androl Urol. 2021 Mar;10(3):1354-1364.
- Kim, SW. (2015). Men’s Health: What Should We Know? World J Mens Health. 2015 Aug;33(2):45-49.
