For infertile couples, a semen analysis test is a crucial fertility test that should be performed before any medications are administered. Semen analysis, often known as sperm count testing, involves more than merely counting sperm.
While one-third of infertility cases concern the female partner, one-third of instances involve the male partner. The third category includes infertility that affects both couples or is undiagnosed. Every infertile couple should ensure that the male member gets examined as well. Even if the female partner has a fertility problem, that does not guarantee the male partner’s fertility is normal.
Many guys are nervous about taking the test and then waiting for the results. Here’s what to expect from a sperm analysis, as well as what the results signify and what to do if the results are abnormal.
What Is Semen Analysis?
A test of a man’s sperm and semen is known as sperm analysis. The findings of a sperm count, often known as a male fertility test, reveal how many sperm are discharged, as well as their morphology and movement. A semen analysis is a lab test that uses a microscope to analyze a sample of sperm. It assesses factors such as sperm count, motility, and shape (morphology).
The thick fluid that flows from a man’s penis when he ejaculates during sexual activity is known as sperm. It transports sperm from a man’s body to fertilize an egg and form an embryo (the first stage of pregnancy).
Who Needs a Semen Analysis?
You may require a sperm analysis for a variety of reasons, including:
Male Infertility: If a couple has been struggling to conceive, there might be a sperm anomaly. In certain circumstances, this is related to a problem with a man’s sperm. A semen analysis determines the possibility that a guy will be able to create a pregnancy.
Vasectomy Follow-up: A semen analysis indicates whether or not a vasectomy was effective. This treatment closes the sperm-depositing tubes in the sperm. If there are no sperm in the sperm, the vasectomy was successful, and a man cannot conceive a woman.
How Do Sperm Count Tests Work?
To handle and examine sperm, healthcare providers employ research-based approaches. You’ll get reliable outcomes if you go to a lab that specializes in semen analysis.
Your doctor will request a sample of your sperm in order to test it:
- In a private room at your doctor’s office, you’ll most likely be requested to ejaculate into a collecting cup. This approach is chosen since it yields a clean sample. Because sperm counts fluctuate from day to day, you may need to give multiple samples separated by a few weeks.
- You may be able to collect your sample from home on occasion. If this is the case, you must preserve it at room temperature and get it to your doctor or lab within 1 hour. Some physicians will give you a special condom that captures your sperm while you’re having intercourse.
- When collecting your sample, avoid using lubricants because they might impact how readily your sperm travel around.
Sperm Count Test Results
When a laboratory receives your sperm sample, it will examine it under a microscope. This will provide you with a lot of useful information, such as:
Concentration– A typical sperm count is at least 15 million sperm per millilitre of sperm. If you have less than that, your sperm count is deemed low.
Motility- Your doctor will examine the number of sperm flowing and how smoothly they move. At the very least, 50% of your sperm sample should be active.
Morphology– The size and form of your sperm have an impact on their ability to fertilise an egg. At least 4% of properly shaped sperm will be found in normal sperm.
Volume- They’ll take note of how much sperm you might deliver for your sample. At least 1.5 millilitres, or roughly half a teaspoon, is considered typical. If your sample is less than that, your seminal vesicles may not be producing enough fluid or may be obstructed. It’s also possible that you have an issue with your prostate.
Chemical Makeup– The acidity of your sperm is measured by its pH. pH levels should be between 7.1 and 8.0. You have acidic sperm if your pH is low. It’s alkaline if the pH is high. The health of your sperm and how effectively it travels might be affected by an irregular pH.
Fructose Level- If your doctor can’t discover any sperm in your sperm sample, they’ll most likely look for seminal fructose, which is generated by your seminal vesicles. It’s possible that you have a blockage if you have low fructose levels or none at all.
If the findings of your semen analysis are abnormal, your doctor will most likely order more tests to determine the cause of your reproductive problem. You can visit Dr Banker if you are having difficulty in conceiving and would like to have a sperm count test.
Also Read: How to achieve pregnancy for couples with male fertility problems