{"product_id":"advanced-male-fertility-hormone-blood-test-kit-copy","title":"Infertility Check Male Blood Test","description":"\u003c!-- \nProduct: Infertility Check Male Blood Test (Home Test Kit)\nCollection: Men's Health \/ Fertility\nCategory: Medical Tests\nWebsite: Meditest\n--\u003e\n\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-listing-container\"\u003e\n    \u003cstyle\u003e\n        .product-listing-container { font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 1.6; color: #333; background-color: #fff; max-width: 100%; overflow: hidden; }\n        .product-listing-container * { box-sizing: border-box; }\n        .product-listing-container .product-description { margin-bottom: 20px; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.8; }\n        .product-listing-container .results-timing { margin: 20px 0; font-size: 16px; }\n        .product-listing-container .results-timing strong { font-size: 18px; color: #2c7a7b; }\n        .product-listing-container .results-timing p { margin-top: 10px; 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color: white; padding: 18px 20px; cursor: pointer; display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; user-select: none; }\n        .product-listing-container .main-section-title { font-size: 18px; font-weight: 700; margin: 0; flex: 1; }\n        .product-listing-container .main-dropdown-icon { transition: transform 0.3s ease; }\n        .product-listing-container .main-section-content { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; }\n        .product-listing-container input[type=\"checkbox\"]:checked + .main-section .main-section-content { max-height: 50000px; }\n        .product-listing-container input[type=\"checkbox\"]:checked + .main-section .main-dropdown-icon { transform: rotate(180deg); }\n        .product-listing-container .main-section-inner { padding: 20px; }\n\n        .product-listing-container .kit-contents-list { list-style: none; padding: 0; margin: 15px 0; }\n        .product-listing-container .kit-contents-list li { padding: 10px 0; border-bottom: 1px solid #e2e8f0; display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; }\n        .product-listing-container .kit-contents-list li:last-child { border-bottom: none; }\n        .product-listing-container .item-qty { background-color: #2c7a7b; color: white; padding: 2px 10px; border-radius: 12px; font-size: 13px; font-weight: 600; }\n\n        .product-listing-container .category-section { margin-bottom: 15px; border: 1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius: 4px; overflow: hidden; }\n        .product-listing-container .category-header { background-color: #4a9ea1; color: white; padding: 14px 16px; cursor: pointer; display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; }\n        .product-listing-container .category-title { font-size: 17px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; }\n        .product-listing-container .category-dropdown-icon { transition: transform 0.3s ease; }\n        .product-listing-container .category-content { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: max-height 0.3s ease; }\n        .product-listing-container input[type=\"checkbox\"]:checked + .category-section .category-content { max-height: 15000px; }\n        .product-listing-container input[type=\"checkbox\"]:checked + .category-section .category-dropdown-icon { transform: rotate(180deg); }\n        .product-listing-container .category-biomarkers { padding: 15px; background-color: #f8fafc; }\n        \n        .product-listing-container .biomarker-item { margin-bottom: 10px; border: 1px solid #e2e8f0; border-radius: 4px; background-color: white; }\n        .product-listing-container .biomarker-item:last-child { margin-bottom: 0; }\n        .product-listing-container .biomarker-header { padding: 12px 15px; cursor: pointer; display: flex; justify-content: space-between; align-items: center; }\n        .product-listing-container .biomarker-name { font-weight: 600; color: #2c7a7b; }\n        .product-listing-container .dropdown-icon { color: #2c7a7b; transition: transform 0.3s ease; }\n        .product-listing-container .biomarker-content { max-height: 0; overflow: hidden; transition: all 0.3s ease; padding: 0 15px; background-color: #f8fafc; }\n        .product-listing-container input[type=\"checkbox\"]:checked + .biomarker-item .biomarker-content { max-height: 2000px; padding: 15px; border-top: 1px solid #e2e8f0; }\n        .product-listing-container input[type=\"checkbox\"]:checked + .biomarker-item .dropdown-icon { transform: rotate(180deg); }\n    \u003c\/style\u003e\n\n    \u003c!-- Section 1: Product Description --\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"product-description\"\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003eThe Infertility Check Male Blood Test measures five key markers that assess the hormonal factors involved in male fertility: FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), LH (luteinising hormone), SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin), the Free Androgen Index (FAI), and prolactin. These hormones regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis—the system that controls testosterone production and sperm development. Imbalances in these hormones can directly affect sperm production, quality, and overall fertility potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \n        \u003cp\u003eThis test is ideal for men who have been trying to conceive with their partner for 12 months or more without success, those with abnormal semen analysis results who want to investigate hormonal causes, men experiencing symptoms of low testosterone (fatigue, reduced libido, erectile dysfunction), anyone wanting to assess their hormonal fertility status before trying to conceive, and men with conditions that may affect fertility (such as previous testicular injury, undescended testes, or varicocele). Male factors contribute to infertility in approximately 40-50% of couples experiencing difficulty conceiving, yet male fertility is often overlooked in the initial workup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \n        \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat's covered in the price:\u003c\/strong\u003e Your kit contains everything needed to collect a finger-prick blood sample at home. Simply follow the instructions, post your sample using the prepaid envelope, and receive your results within 2 working days.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \n    \u003c!-- Section 2: Results Timing --\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"results-timing\"\u003e\n        \u003cstrong\u003eResults ready within 2 working days\u003c\/strong\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003eYour sample goes to a UKAS accredited laboratory meeting ISO 15189 standards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \n        \u003cdiv class=\"dob-notice\"\u003e\n            \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAction Required:\u003c\/strong\u003e Once your order confirmation arrives, please reply to the email with your date of birth. This helps us process your order quickly and avoid any delays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \n    \u003c!-- Section 3: Sample Collection --\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"sample-collection-section\"\u003e\n        \u003ch3\u003eHome Test Kit\u003c\/h3\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003eThis test uses a simple finger-prick blood collection method that you can complete at home. The kit includes everything you need to collect a small blood sample from your fingertip. No appointment or clinic visit is required—simply follow the step-by-step instructions included in your kit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFor the best results:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cul\u003e\n            \u003cli\u003eRead all instructions carefully before starting\u003c\/li\u003e\n            \u003cli\u003eWarm your hands before collection to improve blood flow\u003c\/li\u003e\n            \u003cli\u003ePost your sample on the same day you collect it\u003c\/li\u003e\n            \u003cli\u003eSend your sample Monday to Wednesday to avoid weekend delays in transit\u003c\/li\u003e\n            \u003cli\u003eDo not post samples on weekends or before public holidays\u003c\/li\u003e\n        \u003c\/ul\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \n    \u003c!-- Section 4: Kit Contents --\u003e\n    \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-kit-contents-toggle-fertm\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"main-section\"\u003e\n        \u003clabel for=\"meditest-kit-contents-toggle-fertm\" class=\"main-section-header\"\u003e\n            \u003ch2 class=\"main-section-title\"\u003eWhat's in Your Kit?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n            \u003cspan class=\"main-dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n        \u003c\/label\u003e\n        \u003cdiv class=\"main-section-content\"\u003e\n            \u003cdiv class=\"main-section-inner\"\u003e\n                \u003cul class=\"kit-contents-list\"\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eSterile lancets (single-use finger-prick devices)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×2\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eBlood collection tube (microtainer)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×1\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eAlcohol cleansing wipes\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×2\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eSterile gauze pad\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×1\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eAdhesive plaster\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×1\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eBiohazard specimen bag\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×1\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003ePrepaid return envelope\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×1\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eStep-by-step instructions\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×1\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                    \u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eTest request form\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"item-qty\"\u003e×1\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n                \u003c\/ul\u003e\n            \u003c\/div\u003e\n        \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \n    \u003c!-- Section 5: Special Instructions --\u003e\n    \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-special-instructions-toggle-fertm\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"main-section\"\u003e\n        \u003clabel for=\"meditest-special-instructions-toggle-fertm\" class=\"main-section-header\"\u003e\n            \u003ch2 class=\"main-section-title\"\u003eSpecial Instructions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n            \u003cspan class=\"main-dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n        \u003c\/label\u003e\n        \u003cdiv class=\"main-section-content\"\u003e\n            \u003cdiv class=\"main-section-inner\"\u003e\n                \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMorning Sample – Before 10am:\u003c\/strong\u003e Testosterone levels (which affect FAI calculation) follow a circadian rhythm, peaking in the early morning and declining throughout the day. For accurate results that can be compared to standard reference ranges, collect your sample between 7am and 10am, ideally within 3 hours of waking. If you work night shifts, discuss timing with your doctor.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProlactin Sample Timing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Prolactin levels can be temporarily elevated by stress, recent sleep, strenuous exercise, nipple stimulation, and sexual activity. For the most accurate result, collect your sample at least 1 hour after waking, after a restful night's sleep, and avoid vigorous exercise or sexual activity for 24-48 hours before testing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTestosterone\/Hormone Gels:\u003c\/strong\u003e If you use testosterone gel or other topical hormone products, do NOT take a finger-prick sample from any finger that has been used to apply these products in the past 4 weeks. Even tiny amounts of residual hormone on your skin can contaminate the sample and give falsely elevated results. Always wear disposable gloves when applying hormone products.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAvoid Before Testing:\u003c\/strong\u003e Avoid vigorous exercise for 48 hours before testing. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before testing. Both can temporarily affect hormone levels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBiotin Supplements:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stop biotin (vitamin B7) supplements for at least 72 hours (3 days) before testing. Biotin can interfere with some hormone assays, potentially causing inaccurate results. If biotin is prescribed by your doctor, discuss with them before stopping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                \u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNo Fasting Required:\u003c\/strong\u003e You can eat and drink normally before this test, though a heavy meal just before testing should be avoided.\u003c\/p\u003e\n            \u003c\/div\u003e\n        \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n    \u003c!-- Section 6: Biomarkers --\u003e\n    \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-biomarkers-toggle-fertm\"\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"main-section\"\u003e\n        \u003clabel for=\"meditest-biomarkers-toggle-fertm\" class=\"main-section-header\"\u003e\n            \u003ch2 class=\"main-section-title\"\u003eBiomarkers Tested (5)\u003c\/h2\u003e\n            \u003cspan class=\"main-dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n        \u003c\/label\u003e\n        \u003cdiv class=\"main-section-content\"\u003e\n            \u003cdiv class=\"main-section-inner\"\u003e\n\n                \u003c!-- Male Fertility Hormones (5) --\u003e\n                \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-cat-fertilityhormones-m\"\u003e\n                \u003cdiv class=\"category-section\"\u003e\n                    \u003clabel for=\"meditest-cat-fertilityhormones-m\" class=\"category-header\"\u003e\n                        \u003cspan class=\"category-title\"\u003eMale Fertility Hormones (5)\u003c\/span\u003e\n                        \u003cspan class=\"category-dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n                    \u003c\/label\u003e\n                    \u003cdiv class=\"category-content\"\u003e\n                        \u003cdiv class=\"category-biomarkers\"\u003e\n                            \n                            \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-bio-fsh-fertm\"\u003e\n                            \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-item\"\u003e\n                                \u003clabel for=\"meditest-bio-fsh-fertm\" class=\"biomarker-header\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"biomarker-name\"\u003eFSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                \u003c\/label\u003e\n                                \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-content\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eFollicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is produced by the pituitary gland and is essential for male fertility. In men, FSH acts on the Sertoli cells within the seminiferous tubules of the testes—these are the \"nurse cells\" that support, nourish, and regulate the development of sperm cells (spermatogenesis). Without adequate FSH stimulation, sperm production is impaired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eFSH levels in men are regulated by a feedback loop involving inhibin B (produced by Sertoli cells) and testosterone. When sperm production is healthy, inhibin B signals the pituitary to maintain moderate FSH output. When there's damage to the seminiferous tubules or impaired spermatogenesis, inhibin B production falls and FSH rises—the pituitary is \"trying harder\" to stimulate sperm production. This makes FSH a useful marker of testicular function and spermatogenesis.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eNormal FSH levels in men are typically between 1-12 IU\/L. Elevated FSH (above 10-12 IU\/L) often indicates primary testicular failure—the testes themselves are not producing sperm adequately despite adequate stimulation. This can result from conditions such as previous testicular injury or torsion, chemotherapy or radiation, infections (mumps orchitis), varicocele, genetic conditions (Klinefelter syndrome), or idiopathic (unexplained) testicular failure. Very high FSH levels generally indicate severe damage to sperm-producing tissue and may predict a poor response to fertility treatment. Conversely, low FSH combined with low LH and low testosterone suggests a problem at the level of the pituitary or hypothalamus (secondary hypogonadism), which may be more amenable to hormonal treatment. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP or a fertility specialist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                \u003c\/div\u003e\n                            \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n                            \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-bio-lh-fertm\"\u003e\n                            \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-item\"\u003e\n                                \u003clabel for=\"meditest-bio-lh-fertm\" class=\"biomarker-header\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"biomarker-name\"\u003eLH (Luteinising Hormone)\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                \u003c\/label\u003e\n                                \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-content\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eLuteinising Hormone (LH) is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a different but complementary role to FSH in male reproduction. While FSH acts on Sertoli cells to support sperm production, LH acts on Leydig cells in the testes to stimulate testosterone production. Testosterone is essential not only for sperm production (it acts locally within the testes at high concentrations) but also for libido, erectile function, muscle mass, bone density, and general male health.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eLH and testosterone exist in a feedback loop: when testosterone is adequate, it signals the pituitary to reduce LH output. When testosterone is low (whether due to testicular problems or other causes), LH rises as the pituitary attempts to stimulate more testosterone production. This feedback relationship helps distinguish between different causes of testosterone deficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eNormal LH levels in men are typically between 2-12 IU\/L. Elevated LH with low testosterone indicates primary hypogonadism—the testes are not producing adequate testosterone despite strong stimulation from the pituitary. This pattern is seen in testicular damage, Klinefelter syndrome, and age-related testicular decline. Low LH with low testosterone indicates secondary hypogonadism—the problem lies with the pituitary or hypothalamus, which is not sending adequate stimulation signals. This can be caused by pituitary tumours (including prolactinomas), medications (opioids, steroids), obesity, or severe illness. Secondary hypogonadism is often more responsive to treatment than primary. Normal LH with low testosterone may indicate a subtle or early problem. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP or a fertility specialist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                \u003c\/div\u003e\n                            \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n                            \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-bio-shbg-fertm\"\u003e\n                            \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-item\"\u003e\n                                \u003clabel for=\"meditest-bio-shbg-fertm\" class=\"biomarker-header\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"biomarker-name\"\u003eSHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin)\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                \u003c\/label\u003e\n                                \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-content\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eSex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a protein produced primarily by the liver that binds to sex hormones—testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and oestradiol—and transports them through the bloodstream. SHBG binds testosterone very tightly, and testosterone that is bound to SHBG is considered biologically inactive because it cannot enter cells to exert its effects. Only the \"free\" testosterone (about 2-3% of total) plus the testosterone loosely bound to albumin is considered bioavailable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eSHBG levels significantly affect how much of your total testosterone is actually available for your body to use. Two men with identical total testosterone levels can have very different amounts of bioavailable testosterone depending on their SHBG levels. High SHBG means more testosterone is bound and unavailable, effectively reducing the testosterone your body can use. Low SHBG means more testosterone is free and available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eNormal SHBG levels in men vary but are typically between 15-55 nmol\/L. SHBG is increased by ageing, liver disease, hyperthyroidism, low body weight, and certain medications (anticonvulsants). SHBG is decreased by obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, high androgen levels, and anabolic steroid use. Understanding SHBG is crucial for interpreting testosterone results—a man with high-normal total testosterone but high SHBG may actually have low bioavailable testosterone and experience symptoms of testosterone deficiency. This is why this test includes the Free Androgen Index (FAI), which accounts for SHBG. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                \u003c\/div\u003e\n                            \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n                            \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-bio-fai-fertm\"\u003e\n                            \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-item\"\u003e\n                                \u003clabel for=\"meditest-bio-fai-fertm\" class=\"biomarker-header\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"biomarker-name\"\u003eFAI (Free Androgen Index)\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                \u003c\/label\u003e\n                                \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-content\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eThe Free Androgen Index (FAI) is a calculated ratio that estimates the amount of biologically active testosterone in your blood. It's calculated by dividing total testosterone by SHBG and multiplying by 100: FAI = (Total Testosterone \/ SHBG) × 100. This provides a clinically useful estimate of \"free\" or bioavailable testosterone without requiring the more complex and expensive direct measurement of free testosterone.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eThe FAI accounts for the effect of SHBG on testosterone availability. Because SHBG binds testosterone tightly and renders it inactive, total testosterone alone doesn't tell the whole story. A man with normal total testosterone but high SHBG may have a low FAI—indicating that despite adequate total testosterone production, not enough is available for his body to use. Conversely, a man with borderline total testosterone but low SHBG may have an adequate FAI.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eIn healthy adult men, typical FAI values range from approximately 30-150. Values below 30 may indicate testosterone deficiency (either from inadequate production or excessive binding by SHBG), which can contribute to reduced fertility, low libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, reduced muscle mass, and osteoporosis. The FAI should be interpreted alongside the individual testosterone and SHBG values, as well as FSH, LH, and clinical symptoms. Note that while FAI is useful for screening and monitoring, it's an estimate—if results are borderline or don't match your clinical picture, direct measurement of free testosterone by equilibrium dialysis may be warranted. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP or a fertility specialist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                \u003c\/div\u003e\n                            \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n                            \u003cinput type=\"checkbox\" id=\"meditest-bio-prolactin-fertm\"\u003e\n                            \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-item\"\u003e\n                                \u003clabel for=\"meditest-bio-prolactin-fertm\" class=\"biomarker-header\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"biomarker-name\"\u003eProlactin\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                    \u003cspan class=\"dropdown-icon\"\u003e▼\u003c\/span\u003e\n                                \u003c\/label\u003e\n                                \u003cdiv class=\"biomarker-content\"\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eProlactin is a hormone produced primarily by the pituitary gland. While it's best known for its role in stimulating breast milk production in women, prolactin also affects male reproductive function. In men, prolactin helps regulate the function of Leydig cells (which produce testosterone) and influences libido and sexual function. Normal prolactin levels in men are typically between 50-350 mU\/L (or approximately 2.5-17 ng\/mL, depending on the assay).\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eElevated prolactin (hyperprolactinaemia) in men can suppress the release of GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) from the hypothalamus, which in turn reduces LH and FSH secretion from the pituitary. This leads to decreased testosterone production (secondary hypogonadism) and can impair sperm production. Men with hyperprolactinaemia may experience reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and sometimes breast enlargement (gynaecomastia) or galactorrhoea (nipple discharge).\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                    \u003cp\u003eMildly elevated prolactin (below 25-30 ng\/mL or approximately 500-600 mU\/L) is often not clinically significant and may result from stress, recent food intake, or sample collection conditions. However, significantly elevated prolactin (above 30 ng\/mL) warrants investigation. The most common cause is a prolactinoma—a benign pituitary tumour that secretes prolactin. Larger prolactinomas (macroadenomas \u0026gt;10mm) may also cause headaches and visual field disturbances by pressing on nearby structures. Fortunately, prolactinomas respond very well to medication (dopamine agonists like cabergoline), which can normalise prolactin, restore testosterone levels, and improve fertility. Other causes of elevated prolactin include certain medications (particularly antipsychotics, metoclopramide), hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and chest wall irritation. If prolactin is elevated, repeat testing and potentially pituitary MRI imaging is usually recommended. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP or an endocrinologist.\u003c\/p\u003e\n                                \u003c\/div\u003e\n                            \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n                        \u003c\/div\u003e\n                    \u003c\/div\u003e\n                \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n            \u003c\/div\u003e\n        \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n\n    \u003c!-- Section 7: Medical Disclaimer --\u003e\n    \u003cdiv class=\"disclaimer-section\"\u003e\n        \u003ch3\u003eMedical Disclaimer\u003c\/h3\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003eThis test provides important information about hormonal factors that may affect male fertility, but it is not a complete fertility assessment. The cornerstone of male fertility investigation is semen analysis, which directly assesses sperm count, motility, and morphology—this hormone panel should complement, not replace, semen analysis. Normal hormone levels do not guarantee normal sperm production or fertility, and some men with abnormal hormone levels may still have adequate sperm for conception.\u003c\/p\u003e\n        \u003cp\u003eThis test does not directly measure testosterone (though FAI provides an estimate of bioavailable testosterone). If testosterone deficiency is suspected, a direct testosterone measurement may also be useful. If you are concerned about your fertility, please discuss your results with your GP or a fertility specialist (andrologist or reproductive endocrinologist) who can interpret them in the context of your semen analysis, medical history, physical examination, and your partner's fertility status, and advise on any further investigations or treatment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n    \u003c\/div\u003e\n    \n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Medi Test Direct","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":61315010167114,"sku":"Inuvi (IN460)","price":58.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0944\/5926\/5354\/files\/Infertility_Check_Male_Blood_Test.png?v=1773257717","url":"https:\/\/meditestdirect.co.uk\/products\/advanced-male-fertility-hormone-blood-test-kit-copy","provider":"Medi Test Direct","version":"1.0","type":"link"}