Andrology and fertility assessment

Specialized clinical reproductive laboratories are an essential part of the infertility clinic, aiding in assessment and treatment of females and males. This update reviews female and male reproductive physiology, highlights important aspects of the fertility assessment, and details the diagnostic approach with an emphasis on testing performed in the clinical reproductive laboratory. Infertility is a common condition, affecting 10% to 15% of reproductive-aged couples. Although the prevalence of infertility is believed to have remained relatively stable during the past 40 years, the demand for infertility evaluation and treatment has increased considerably. In general, infertility is caused by female factors in one-third of cases, by male factors in one-third of cases, and by a combination of female and male factors in the remaining one-third of cases. Thus, it is imperative to evaluate both partners prior to instituting a treatment plan.