What is Semen Analysis?
Male infertility is a growing issue in recent times. Studies reveal that nearly 1 out of every 20 men suffer from inadequate sperm in their ejaculation. Fortunately, there’s treatment now. Even if there’s no sperm in what you release, it doesn’t mean you can’t become a parent in the future. We have ways to assist men who don’t have any sperm at all in their release.
Nowadays, semen analysis is a crucial health checkup for men. For couples who are having difficulty getting pregnant, this test is really helpful. It helps find out if the man might be part of the reason why the couple is having trouble. Semen analysis also shows if there are problems like not having enough sperm, poor sperm motility or any other unusual behavior. These issues can make it harder for a woman to become pregnant from her partner.
- Sperm count
- Sperm volume/shape
- Sperm motility
When Should I Get a Semen Analysis?
Testing to determine whether a person is fertile is called an infertility evaluation. Doctors usually determine when to do an infertility evaluation based on several factors, including a person’s medical history, age, and the results of a physical exam.
Infertility testing may be recommended when a couple is unable to get pregnant after having frequent unprotected sex for more than a year or for more than 6 months if the female partner or partner with a uterus is older than 35 years of age. Doctors may also recommend a semen analysis for couples that have concerns about fertility and are interested in testing.
Why does Semen Analysis Matter?
Around 30-40% of cases related to difficulty in having children are due to issues with fertility. Semen analysis is usually the initial step in figuring out the reason behind infertility. You might require a semen analysis for :
Testing for Male Infertility
A semen analysis is performed to check if issues with semen or sperm are contributing to infertility. This test is commonly suggested when couples face difficulties in conceiving. By conducting this test, a doctor can figure out if a man is unable to father a child. The analysis also aids in identifying whether low sperm count or problems with sperm function are responsible for the infertility.
Checking the Success of a Vasectomy
After a man has a vasectomy, a semen analysis is done to confirm that there are no sperm present in his semen.
Getting Prepared for the Test
Before collecting the sample, it’s important to stay away from any sexual activity that leads to ejaculation of sperm for a week at least. This ensures that your sperm count is at its peak level. Our expert will provide you with precise instructions.
Semen Analysis Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 2. Sample Preparation
After obtaining the semen sample, it is taken to the laboratory and left to liquefy for a period of 20 to 30 minutes. Following this, the lab technician conducts a process to separate the semen and readies a small portion of it on a microscope slide.
Step 3. Analyzing the Semen
Under a microscope, the lab technician inspects the semen sample to assess both its quantity and quality. During this examination, they will evaluate factors such as the number of sperm, their movement, and their shape.
Step 4. Evaluation of Results
After the sperm test is finished, the lab technician will furnish a report containing the outcomes. This report will comprehensively outline the characteristics of the semen, and the doctor will interpret these findings to identify any potential fertility concerns.
What Information Does the Report Include?
The semen analysis report contains several measurements that provide insights into your semen and sperm health:
| Sperm Count: | This indicates the number of sperm in the entire sample. A low count might make it challenging to conceive with your partner. |
| Motility: | It reflects the percentage of sperm moving forward. Movement is vital for sperm to successfully fertilize an egg. |
| Morphology: | This assesses the proportion of sperm with a normal shape. Sperm with irregular shapes could struggle to fertilize an egg. |
| pH Level: | Describes the acidity of your semen. Unusual acidity might harm or hinder sperm movement. |
| Appearance: | Normal semen is typically whitish to gray and opalescent in appearance. |
| Volume: | This measures the amount of semen in your sample. A low volume might impact fertility. |
| Semen Liquefaction Period: | Healthy semen generally becomes liquid within 15 to 30 minutes. |
| White Blood Cells (Leukocytes): | Presence of these in sperm might indicate an infection affecting fertility. |
Decoding the Semen Analysis Report
- Normal Study: Everything appears within the expected range.
- Aspermia: Absence of semen in the sample.
- Azoospermia: Zero sperm in the sample.
- Hypospermia: Reduced semen volume.
- Hyperspermia: Increased semen volume.
- Oligozoospermia: Very low sperm count.
- Asthenozoospermia: Sperm have poor motility (movement).
- Teratozoospermia: Sperm show more morphological defects than usual.
- Necrozoospermia: All sperm in the ejaculate are dead.
- Leucospermia: Elevated white blood cell levels in semen.
What to Expect After a Semen Analysis ?
- Lubricants: Using lubricants or condoms with lubricants can impact results.
- Alcohol: Alcohol consumption may influence the results.
- Smoking: Smoking can affect the quality of semen.
- Recreational Drugs: The use of recreational drugs can have an impact.
- Medications: Certain prescribed medications may also influence results.
Remember, if your semen analysis shows abnormal results, it doesn’t mean you are permanently infertile. However, it does suggest that your sperm could be playing a role in the difficulties you and your partner are facing in trying to have a baby. Seeking advice from a medical expert can offer valuable insights and potential ways to address the situation.
Your consultant might recommend additional tests to identify the root cause of the issue and facilitate appropriate treatment. Several potential causes exist, including:
- Lifestyle Habits: Habits like smoking that can be altered.
- Physical Conditions: Conditions like an enlarged vein (varicocele) in your testicles.
- Genetic and Health Factors: Genetic disorders and health conditions such as hormone imbalances, diabetes, and cystic fibrosis.
Determining the underlying cause of infertility is essential for effective treatment and enhancing the likelihood of successful conception.
What Affects Semen Analysis Test?
Expenses of Semen Analysis Test
What Ankuran offers?
- Adherence to strict and up-to-date guidelines stated by the WHO laboratory manual
- A dedicated and advanced andrology Lab
- Trained and experienced lab technicians
