Semen Analysis

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Semen Analysis

What is Semen Analysis?

Semen analysis is an important diagnostic procedure that is increasingly popular among men today. It is a critical tool for couples dealing with reproductive issues, such as when male factor infertility is identified as a significant cause of infertility in males.

Semen analysis also aids in the identification of concerns such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and aberrant morphology that can interfere with a woman's ability to conceive from her spouse.

Semen Analysis Parameters

In general, sperm should be examined after a minimum of 2 days and a maximum of 7 days of abstinence. An Andrologist is the professional who performs this test. It is very advised that he/she adhere to the WHO requirements for sperm analysis. The andrologist will check your sperm to determine the following factors:

Semen Volume:

A single ejaculate's normal semen volume should be at least 1.5 ml.

Sperm Count:

The quantity of sperms present in your sperm is referred to as the sperm count. One milliliter of sperm should contain at least 15 million sperms. Oligozoospermia is defined as a concentration less than that.

Semen Color

A typical sperm sample appears opalescent grey. Any variation from this to red or yellow-orange may suggest the presence of blood, illness, or other factors.

Semen's pH range

The normal pH of sperm is around 7.2. Infection or contamination is indicated by a higher or lower pH.

Morphology:

This pertains to the sperm's form, shape, and size. A typical sperm has an oval-shaped head, a neck or central section, and a single tail. To create a good embryo, all of these pieces must be perfectly shaped. At least 4% of the sperms in a typical sperm sample must have normal morphology. Teratozoospermia is a condition that occurs when the value is smaller than that.

Motility:

The proportion of sperms in your sperm that can move is indicated by motility. A male with normal fertility should have at least 40% motile sperms. Asthenozoospermia is defined as a value less than that. This is a critical element since only motile sperms can finish the journey to fertilize an egg.

In conclusion, semen analysis is a vital diagnostic tool for assessing male fertility. It provides crucial information about sperm quantity and quality, aiding in the identification of potential issues affecting fertility. This non-invasive procedure guides the development of personalized treatment plans, from lifestyle adjustments to advanced reproductive technologies. By empowering individuals and couples with essential insights, semen analysis plays a key role in making informed decisions on their fertility journey. Ultimately, it contributes significantly to understanding and managing male reproductive health, offering hope for those seeking to start a family.

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