The Diagnostic Andrology Laboratory is run by experts in evaluating and treating severe male infertility, and partners with experts in treating male infertility. The procedures in our lab comply with and exceed current World Health Organization (WHO, 2010, 2021) standards. The Diagnostic Andrology Laboratory is accredited by the College of American Pathologists.
To provide the most accurate semen analysis it is preferred that the sample be produced at the Diagnostic Andrology Laboratory. As a result, it is not uncommon for a man to feel a bit anxious when he is asked to provide a specimen. Our staff has made every attempt to consider these special circumstances and may be able to provide suggestions for reducing any associated stress.
Diagnostic Semen/Sperm Tests
Semen Analysis
The Semen Analysis has for many decades been a valuable clinical laboratory test for assessing male fertility potential. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently published its 6th Edition of a manual containing standardized procedures for evaluating semen samples and methods to ensure the highest quality control standards for testing. The Diagnostic Andrology Laboratory strictly adheres to the recommended standards provided in the WHO manual (2021).
The semen analysis evaluates both qualitative and quantitative parameters. The latter consists of sperm concentration and sperm motion determinations along with critical assessment of sperm shape. Collectively, these determinations provide important information regarding male fertility potential. Further, recent evidence demonstrates that the semen analysis can provide early warning for other medical conditions, such as testicular cancer, metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease.
Other tests performed at the Diagnostic Andrology Laboratory related to the semen analysis are:
- Post-vasectomy semen analysis to confirm clinical infertility
- Testicular biopsy evaluations
Cap-ScoreTM Sperm Function Test
The Cap-Score Sperm Function Test is being offered exclusively in Minnesota by the M Health Fairview Diagnostic Andrology Lab to better understand and analyze male infertility.
Traditional semen analysis relies on the measurement of count, motility, and shape to determine fertilizing ability. But those don’t actually measure the function of the sperm. The Cap-Score test goes one step further; it measures sperm capacitation - the ability of sperm to fertilize an egg.
Sperm/Semen Cryopreservation or Fertility Preservation
There are a number of reasons men may choose to have their sperm banked (cryopreserved):
- Before cancer treatments, such as radiation and/or chemotherapy
- Before any surgeries that may result in infertility or reduced fertility
- Before deploying for military service if there is a risk of injury or exposure to chemicals or extreme heat that may result in infertility
- In preparation for an in-vitro fertilization process
