For men, it is very important for men to participate in the pregnancy test. The health status of men, especially the reproductive health status, has an important impact on successful pregnancy and the health status of the fetus. The following are some tests that men should carry out when preparing for pregnancy:
Semen analysis
This is an important examination to evaluate male fertility, which can understand the number, mobility and morphology of sperm and evaluate male fertility. Everyone will be curious about how this step is carried out.
Before the examination, the doctor will tell you that in order to provide an accurate semen sample, you need to avoid any sexual behavior for 2 to 5 days before the sample is collected for examination. Because this can ensure the accuracy of sperm count.
After arriving at the hospital on the day of examination, the nurse will give you a special sterile container and instruct you to collect all the semen in the container as much as possible. Then, you will be guided to a private room, which is very private and has suitable facilities to help you collect semen samples comfortably and smoothly. After sampling, the sealed container was handed over to the nurse. Next, this sample will be sent to the laboratory for analysis by specialized technicians to evaluate the number, motility and morphology of sperm, as well as the pH value of semen and other indicators. Warm reminder, you should keep a healthy and positive attitude during the whole process. Remember to avoid excessive tension, and smoothness is the first priority.
Sex hormone examination
It mainly includes the determination of testosterone, gonadotropin (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), which are all important factors affecting sperm production.
This item is matched by blood test. After the nurse draws blood for you, send the sample to the laboratory for analysis, and then the doctor will check whether the relevant indicators are within the normal range. Pay attention to fasting within 8- 12 hours before the examination to ensure the accuracy of the examination results.
Genetic examination
Chromosome karyotype analysis and examination of common male infertility related genes, such as AZF deletion detection, can be carried out. This is also a blood test, and blood samples will be sent for DNA analysis.
Usually, the risks of hereditary diseases such as Down syndrome, Duchenne muscular dystrophy and thalassemia can be identified in advance through genetic examination. But don't worry too much. When receiving genetic examination, the doctor will choose which diseases should be screened according to your specific situation.
Examination of male reproductive system diseases
Including B-ultrasound of testis, epididymis, spermatic cord and other organs, detection of infectious pathogens of prostate and urethra, etc. This kind of examination can help to find structural abnormalities, tumors, cysts, inflammation and other problems that may affect fertility. If pathogens are detected, antibiotics and other drugs may be needed to treat the infection.
Examination of sexually transmitted diseases
Check whether there are any sexually transmitted diseases, which may affect fertility and may be transmitted to children during pregnancy. Such as syphilis, AIDS, gonorrhea, etc., which may have an impact on reproductive health. There are usually many ways to help the examination, and the specific doctor will make arrangements according to the actual situation:
Blood test: By taking blood samples, diseases such as HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B can be detected. These diseases will leave traces of special antibodies or pathogens in the blood.
Urine detection: By providing urine samples, diseases such as gonorrhea and chlamydia can be detected.
Physical examination: The doctor may have a physical examination of the genital area to see if there are external symptoms of diseases such as herpes and condyloma acuminatum (a disease caused by human papillomavirus HPV).
Samples of secretions, herpes or warts: If there are suspicious secretions, herpes or warts, the doctor may collect samples for testing to determine whether there are sexually transmitted diseases.
Rectal swab: For some diseases, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia or human papillomavirus (HPV), it may be necessary to obtain swab samples from the cervix or rectum. This operation needs to be done by medical staff in a hospital environment.
General health examination
This includes blood sugar, blood pressure, liver and kidney function, electrocardiogram and other general health assessments. Poor general health may affect fertility. This article should be the most familiar to everyone, and it is similar to our daily physical examination items. After all, before a baby is conceived, the father must have a healthy body to better welcome the birth of the baby.
Assessment of living habits
Including diet, exercise, sleep, stress, drinking, smoking, etc., which may affect men's reproductive health. When evaluating your living habits, doctors may ask some questions about your daily behaviors and habits to understand the factors that may affect your health or fertility. For example:
Eating habits: Do you have a balanced diet? How much vegetables and fruits do you eat every day? Do you often eat fast food or foods high in sugar and fat? Do you eat regularly?
Exercise habit: How often and how long do you exercise every week? What kind of sports do you like?
Drinking and Smoking: Do you smoke? How often and how much do you drink?
Sleep habits: How long do you sleep every night? Do you have a good sleep quality? Do you have any problems with insomnia or snoring?
Stress and Mental Health: Are there any major stresses in your daily life? Do you have a strategy to deal with stress? Do you have symptoms of anxiety or depression?
Sex: Do you use contraception? Do you have multiple sexual partners? Do you have regular STD check-ups?
Occupational exposure: Is it possible for your job to be exposed to toxic chemicals or radiation?
The above are some tests that are usually carried out before pregnancy, hoping to help you who are ready to be a father. Pregnancy preparation is not only a physical matter, but also involves emotional and lifestyle changes. Therefore, in this process, besides physical examination, it is also very important for men to be emotionally prepared and face possible difficulties and challenges with their partners. Remember, you went through this process together, and mutual support and understanding can help you through this important stage. I wish you a smooth pregnancy and welcome your baby in your as soon as possible!