FSH and Other Tests

FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone) Test

This test is used to detect if there is an abnormal increase in the FSH levels. High levels of FSH could indicate testicular failure.

Testicular Biopsy

This is done when the FSH test is normal. This is used to conclusively establish that the sperm production in the test is normal. The procedure is a simple surgery done under a local anaesthetic. There could be mild pain for a few days after the procedure. The test is done by taking multiple samples of tissue from the testis and examining them to determine sperm production capability. If the doctor determines that there is no sperm production in the testicles, this is a case of testicular failure. However, if the sperm production looks ok but there is still no sperm in the semen, this could indicate the presence of a blockage in the passageway.

Specialized clinics can store the testicular tissue. This avoids having to do multiple biopsies if the test needs to be redone and the sperm in the tissue can be used for ICSI, if needed.

IVF

IVF is the best test to determine the functioning of the sperm. This is generally done by having both the husband's sperm and a donor sperm try to fertilize the wife's egg. If the donor sperm succeeds while the husband's fails, then the problem with the sperm has been detected. A second test may be recommended to confirm the findings. However, the IVF test is pretty expensive.