Testosterone Testing during Infertility Treatment

Testosterone levels are an important factor in fertility. When infertility is suspected, testosterone testing may be recommended for both partners. It involves a blood test and in the male, the test primarily looks for a lower than normal level of testosterone since sufficient testosterone is absolutely critical for normal sperm production. A testosterone test may be used to see whether a problem with the testicles or pituitary gland is preventing a man from being able to father a child. If the testosterone level is abnormal that could also be the reason for erectile dysfunction. Low testosterone may be caused by an underlying hormonal problem such as a pituitary problem, a disease affecting the testes, or physical damage to the testes. Damage may be caused by physical injury, chronic alcohol abuse or a history of mumps.

Testosterone Testing in Women
Testosterone was once considered an exclusively male hormone; but research over the past decade has shown that this hormone also plays a crucial role in women's physical and psychological health. Endocrine abnormalities like increased testosterone levels are factors that affect female fertility.

A blood test to determine testosterone levels is recommended if a woman has irregular periods or none at all. Most of the testosterone in the blood is bound to a protein called sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Obesity or hyperthyroidism could lead to increased SHBG levels and therefore, "Free" testosterone may be checked when such conditions are present.

Testosterone and Infertility
Testosterone has an indirect impact on female fertility and female testosterone levels can be an indication for certain conditions that can cause female infertility. High testosterone caused by low estrogen or by ovarian cancer in females may be the root cause for many infertility related issues. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is another possible cause. Another symptom is anovulation (not producing mature egg cells), which leads to infertility. High testosterone does not cause infertility, but testosterone levels can rise in women because of tumors that develop in the ovaries or PCOS.

East Bay Fertility Center California, offers a wide range of infertility treatments along with expert medical counseling to couples facing difficulty in conceiving. Under the guidance of Dr. Ellen U. Snowden, Medical Director and Reproductive Endocrinologist, medical staff at East Bay provides dedicated treatment for infertility and reproductive endocrine issues. With the right type of treatment and intervention, the Center assists couples who have been having problems conceiving to overcome those difficulties in the shortest possible time in order to realize their dreams of having a healthy baby. Call 925.828.9235 for a free initial consultation.