When evaluating a male fertility issue, what two initial tests should be ordered?

When evaluating male fertility issues, determining testosterone levels and assessing the hormonal profile is critical. Ordering fasting morning testosterone along with FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) is particularly important. FSH is instrumental in assessing the functioning of the Sertoli cells within the testes, which support spermatogenesis. On the other hand, testosterone is crucial for the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues and sperm production.

A fasting morning testosterone level is most indicative since testosterone levels can fluctuate throughout the day, and measuring it in the morning at fasting state provides a clearer picture of the hormonal status. This combination of tests allows for an initial assessment of both spermatogenic function and androgen status in men facing fertility issues, making these tests a foundational step in the evaluation process.

In contrast, while the other options include important hormones to assess, they do not provide the essential information needed to evaluate male fertility as effectively as the selected tests. FSH, in combination with testosterone, specifically addresses the key aspects of male reproductive health.