Semen testing

Semen Testing

Semen testing, also known as semen analysis, is a laboratory procedure used to evaluate the health and viability of a man's sperm. It is a critical component in the assessment of male fertility and is often one of the first tests conducted when a couple is experiencing difficulty conceiving. The test measures several parameters of the semen and sperm, including volume, concentration, motility, morphology, and the presence of white blood cells or other abnormalities.

Purpose

Semen testing is primarily used to:

• Assess male fertility potential.
• Diagnose potential causes of male infertility.
• Evaluate the success of a vasectomy or vasectomy reversal.
• Monitor the effects of treatment for male reproductive issues.

Procedure

Sample Collection

The semen sample is typically collected through masturbation into a sterile container. It is important that the sample is collected after a period of sexual abstinence, usually 2 to 7 days, to ensure the accuracy of the results. The sample should be kept at body temperature and delivered to the laboratory within one hour of collection.

Laboratory Analysis

Once the sample is received, it undergoes a series of tests, including:

• Volume Measurement: The total volume of the ejaculate is measured. Normal volume ranges from 1.5 to 5 milliliters.
• Sperm Concentration: The number of sperm per milliliter of semen is counted. A normal concentration is typically greater than 15 million sperm per milliliter.
• Motility Assessment: The percentage of moving sperm is evaluated. At least 40% of the sperm should be motile.
• Morphology Evaluation: The shape and structure of the sperm are examined. A normal morphology is when at least 4% of the sperm have a normal shape.
• pH Level: The acidity or alkalinity of the semen is measured. Normal pH ranges from 7.2 to 8.0.
• White Blood Cell Count: The presence of white blood cells is checked, as a high count may indicate infection or inflammation.

Interpretation of Results

The results of a semen analysis can provide valuable information about a man's fertility status. Abnormal results may indicate issues such as:

• Oligospermia: Low sperm concentration.
• Asthenozoospermia: Poor sperm motility.
• Teratozoospermia: Abnormal sperm morphology.
• Azoospermia: Absence of sperm in the ejaculate.

Factors Affecting Semen Quality

Several factors can influence the quality of semen, including:

• Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use can negatively impact sperm quality.
• Environmental Exposures: Exposure to toxins, chemicals, and radiation can affect sperm production and function.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, hormonal imbalances, and infections can impair semen quality.
• Medications: Certain medications can affect sperm production and motility.

Treatment and Management

Depending on the results of the semen analysis, various treatment options may be considered, such as lifestyle modifications, medical treatments, or assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Also see

• Male infertility
• Sperm donation
• Vasectomy
• In vitro fertilization
• Intracytoplasmic sperm injection