What are the pre pregnancy physical examinations for men

The pre pregnancy physical examination for males includes semen analysis, sex hormone testing, infectious disease screening, urogenital system examination, genetic disease screening, etc. Pre pregnancy physical examination helps to evaluate male fertility, eliminate potential health problems, and provide guarantees for eugenics and child rearing.

1. Semen analysis

Semen analysis is an important item for evaluating male fertility. By examining indicators such as semen volume, sperm concentration, vitality, and morphology, it determines whether sperm quality is normal. Low sperm quality may lead to difficulty conceiving or affect embryo development. If the results are abnormal, further investigation is needed to determine whether there are issues such as reproductive system inflammation, varicocele, or endocrine disorders. Abstinence from sexual activity for 2-7 days before the examination, avoiding vigorous exercise and high temperature environments.

2. Sex hormone testing

Sex hormone testing includes indicators such as testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, etc., which can reflect whether testicular function and hypothalamic pituitary gonadal axis regulation are normal. Abnormal hormone levels may affect sperm production, leading to oligospermia, asthenozoospermia, or azoospermia. Long term staying up late, excessive stress, or suffering from pituitary tumors can all cause hormonal imbalances. The test should be conducted on an empty stomach in the morning, and if the results are abnormal, a comprehensive evaluation based on clinical manifestations should be conducted.

3. Infectious disease screening

Infectious disease screening mainly detects AIDS, syphilis, hepatitis B, hepatitis C and other diseases that can be transmitted through sexual contact or mother to child. These diseases may affect sperm quality or be transmitted to spouses and fetuses through semen. If the test result is positive, timely treatment and protective measures should be taken to avoid vertical transmission. No special preparation is required before screening, but it is necessary to truthfully inform the doctor of recent high-risk behavior history.

4. Urinary and reproductive system examination

Urinary and reproductive system examination evaluates the structure and function of organs such as testes, epididymis, spermatic cord, and prostate through physical examination, ultrasound, and other methods. Diseases such as cryptorchidism, varicocele, and prostatitis can be found, which may interfere with sperm production or transport. Clean the external genitalia before the examination, and hold urine during ultrasound examination. Further examinations such as magnetic resonance imaging or seminal vesicle imaging may be necessary when abnormalities are detected.

5. Genetic Disease Screening

Genetic disease screening targets high-risk populations such as thalassemia, chromosomal abnormalities, and monogenic diseases, and evaluates genetic risk through blood testing. Certain genetic diseases may lead to infertility or developmental defects in offspring. Individuals with a family history of genetic inheritance, consanguineous marriage, or a spouse with a history of adverse pregnancy and childbirth should be given priority screening. Detailed family history is required before testing, and genetic experts should be consulted in case of abnormal results. After the pre pregnancy physical examination, men should maintain a healthy lifestyle, avoid smoking and drinking, stay away from high temperatures and radiation environments, have a regular schedule, and supplement trace elements such as zinc and selenium in moderation. If abnormal results are found, timely treatment or intervention should be sought at the reproductive medicine department or urology department according to medical advice. During the preparation period for pregnancy, both spouses need to participate in health management together, regularly review relevant indicators, and consider assisted reproductive technology if necessary. Maintain an optimistic attitude during the preconception stage and avoid excessive anxiety that may have a negative impact on fertility.