Male Infertility Evaluation in Korea
Facing difficulties with conception can be emotionally taxing for couples, and while fertility issues are often assumed to be female-related, male factors contribute to over 40% of infertility cases. If you've been trying to conceive for over a year (or 6 months if the female partner is over 35) without success, a male infertility evaluation (남성 불임 검사 – namseong burim geomsa) is a crucial first step. In Korea, especially at men's health centers like Gangnam J Urology Clinic, testing is efficient, private, and supported by world-class diagnostics and experienced specialists.
Advanced, Confidential Testing for Fertility and Reproductive Health
Facing difficulties with conception can be emotionally taxing for couples, and while fertility issues are often assumed to be female-related, male factors contribute to over 40% of infertility cases. If you've been trying to conceive for over a year (or 6 months if the female partner is over 35) without success, a male infertility evaluation (남성 불임 검사 – namseong burim geomsa) is a crucial first step. In Korea, especially at men's health centers like Gangnam J Urology Clinic, testing is efficient, private, and supported by world-class diagnostics and experienced specialists.
What Is Male Infertility?
Male infertility refers to a man’s inability to initiate pregnancy in a fertile female partner. This may be due to:
- Low sperm count
- Poor sperm motility (movement)
- Abnormal sperm shape (morphology)
- Blockages in the reproductive tract
- Hormonal imbalances
- Genetic conditions or testicular dysfunction
Often, there are no obvious symptoms, making a professional evaluation essential.
Common Causes of Male Infertility
1. Sperm Production Issues:
- Varicocele (enlarged veins in the scrotum)
- Undescended testicles or history of testicular injury
- Infections such as mumps orchitis or STIs
- Genetic disorders (Klinefelter’s syndrome, Y chromosome microdeletions)
2. Sperm Delivery Problems:
- Ejaculatory duct obstruction
- Retrograde ejaculation (semen enters bladder instead of exiting)
- Vasectomy or congenital absence of vas deferens
3. Lifestyle and Hormonal Factors:
- Smoking, alcohol, obesity, or drug use
- Exposure to heat or toxins (e.g., saunas, heavy metals)
- Low testosterone or pituitary hormone imbalance
Male Fertility Evaluation Process in Korea
Clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic offer comprehensive and discreet assessments tailored to each patient’s needs:
1. Initial Consultation
- Medical and sexual history
- Review of partner’s fertility status
- Questions on lifestyle, medications, surgeries, and symptoms (e.g., erectile dysfunction)
2. Semen Analysis (정액 검사 – jeong-aek geomsa)
- The most important test
- Performed after 2–7 days of abstinence
- Evaluates sperm count, motility, morphology, volume, and pH
- Results typically ready in 1–2 days
3. Hormonal Blood Tests
- Includes testosterone, FSH, LH, prolactin, and thyroid levels
- Identifies hormone-related causes of infertility
4. Scrotal Ultrasound
- Detects varicoceles, testicular abnormalities, or blockages
- Non-invasive and painless
5. Genetic Testing (if indicated)
- Karyotyping or Y-chromosome analysis
- Especially important in cases of azoospermia (no sperm)
6. Additional Tests (if needed):
- Post-ejaculate urinalysis (for retrograde ejaculation)
- Anti-sperm antibodies
- Testicular biopsy (rare, for sperm retrieval or diagnosis)
Why Choose Gangnam J Urology Clinic for Male Fertility Testing?
- Specialized Male Fertility Expertise: Urologists with reproductive endocrinology experience
- On-site Laboratory Services: For fast and accurate semen analysis
- Bilingual, Confidential Support: English-speaking staff available for international patients
- Discreet and Respectful Environment: Emphasis on privacy and emotional comfort
- Next-Step Counseling: Whether you need medical treatment, surgery, or IVF referral, they guide you every step of the way
Cost of Male Fertility Evaluation in Korea
With NHIS (if infertility is coded as a medical issue):
- Consultation: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
- Semen Analysis: ₩10,000 – ₩20,000
- Hormone Panel: ₩10,000 – ₩30,000
- Ultrasound: ₩10,000 – ₩30,000
Total with NHIS: ₩30,000 – ₩80,000
Without NHIS (Out-of-Pocket):
- Consultation: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
- Semen Analysis: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
- Hormonal Bloodwork: ₩50,000 – ₩150,000
- Ultrasound: ₩100,000 – ₩200,000
- Genetic Testing (if needed): ₩200,000 – ₩400,000
Total without NHIS: ₩150,000 – ₩500,000+
When to Consider a Male Fertility Check
You should schedule a male infertility evaluation if:
- You’ve been trying to conceive for 12+ months without success
- Your partner is over 35 and you’ve been trying for 6+ months
- You’ve had a vasectomy or testicular surgery in the past
- You have a history of erectile or ejaculation issues
- You want a fertility check before starting IVF or IUI
Infertility isn’t a reflection of masculinity—it’s a
medical condition with identifiable and often treatable causes. Clinics like
Gangnam J Urology Clinic offer
state-of-the-art male fertility testing in a professional, judgment-free setting. If you're ready to take proactive steps on your journey to parenthood, expert support is just one appointment away.