ABB Andrology study plan
ABB Andrology · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Semen Analysis and Semen Evaluation
Define each parameter reported in a basic semen analysis and state the reference interpretation framework for each
Describe the correct collection, liquefaction, and handling sequence for a semen specimen and justify each timing step
Explain the difference between manual and automated counting methods and when each is preferred
Outline morphology assessment approaches at a conceptual level, including why strict classification schemes differ
Your checkpoint
A one-page annotated semen analysis workflow diagram covering collection through reporting, with timing justifications written beside each step
Semen Analysis and Semen Evaluation
Interpret paired semen parameter results and identify which findings are internally consistent versus contradictory
Explain how abstinence interval and collection completeness affect reported values
Distinguish descriptive semen findings from diagnostic conclusions and state the limits of a single sample
Describe how semen results feed into downstream ART decisions
Your checkpoint
A written case interpretation of five synthetic semen result sets, each with a reasoned interpretation and a stated confidence level
Sperm Function and Sperm Preparation Techniques
Describe the biological events sperm must complete to achieve fertilization and where each can be assessed
Compare sperm preparation techniques by principle, yield, and effect on sperm quality
Explain how preparation choice should follow the intended downstream use
Identify which functional assays exist and what each measures conceptually
Your checkpoint
A comparison table of at least four preparation techniques with principle, expected effect on sperm parameters, and appropriate use case
Sperm Function and Sperm Preparation Techniques & Male Reproductive Endocrinology and Hormone Testing
Explain the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and the feedback relationships among its hormones
State which hormone tests are used to distinguish central from testicular causes of male factor findings
Connect sperm function concepts from week 3 to the hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis
Predict expected hormone patterns for given clinical scenarios
Your checkpoint
A labeled axis diagram plus a prediction exercise mapping five synthetic hormone profiles to plausible interpretations
Male Reproductive Endocrinology and Hormone Testing
Describe the role and limitations of hormone testing in evaluating male infertility
Explain how hormone results influence treatment pathway selection
Distinguish primary from secondary hypogonadal patterns using laboratory values
Identify pre-analytic variables that alter hormone measurements
Your checkpoint
A decision flowchart from initial hormone panel to interpretation category, with pre-analytic caveats annotated
Andrology Laboratory Quality Control and Quality Assurance
Define the components of a quality management system as applied to an andrology laboratory
Explain how internal quality control differs from external proficiency testing and why both are needed
Describe how to evaluate control results and when to reject a run
Outline the elements of a documented corrective action process
Your checkpoint
A written QC plan outline for one semen analysis parameter, including control frequency, acceptance criteria, and corrective action triggers
Assisted Reproductive Technology Laboratory Procedures & Andrology Laboratory Quality Control and Quality Assurance
Sequence the laboratory steps of an ART cycle from specimen receipt to gamete handling
Explain the quality control checks applied at each critical ART laboratory step
Describe how documentation and traceability requirements apply to gamete and embryo handling
Identify failure points in an ART workflow and the QC measure that detects each
Your checkpoint
An ART laboratory workflow map with a QC checkpoint and detection method annotated at each critical step
Regulatory, Safety, and Ethical Standards in the Andrology Laboratory
Summarize the regulatory framework categories that govern an andrology laboratory and what each addresses
Describe required safety practices for handling biological specimens and hazardous materials
Explain informed consent and confidentiality obligations specific to reproductive specimens
Integrate all six domains into a consolidated review outline
Your checkpoint
A consolidated one-page synthesis linking all six domains, plus a 20-item self-test with answer key written from memory
Milestones
Week 2: Can explain the full semen analysis workflow and interpret a novel result set without notes
Week 4: Can draw the hormone axis from memory and predict hormone patterns for a given scenario
Week 6: Can state QC versus proficiency testing differences and define run rejection criteria unaided
Week 8: Scores at least 80% on the self-written 20-item cross-domain self-test