Question

Why are men typically tested for infertility before women?

Short answer

Men are typically tested before women for infertility because the testing process is simpler, less expensive and less time-consuming on the male side. Also, due to the biological differences and greater complexity present in female reproduction, male fertility tests are the less invasive of the two.

Step-by-step solution

Biological Differences

Men produce sperm throughout their whole life while women are born with a fixed amount of eggs. Also, the frequency of sperm production is much higher than the frequency of egg production.

The Process of Testing

Detecting infertility in men typically involves a simple test (semen analysis) which is relatively easy, less invasive, less time-consuming and less expensive than the procedures required for testing women.

Complexity

The anatomy and reproductive cycle of women are more complex than those of men, which makes infertility testing for women more sophisticated and typically carried out after testing the male partner.

Important Considerations

However, these are general steps and it may vary depending on the health and medical history of the couple. It is always recommended to get professional medical advice.