Male fertility issues are on the rise due to several factors resulting in couples facing trouble getting pregnant in a natural way. The quality and quantity of sperm play a significant role in the reproductive health of men. Male infertility tests can help men to identify the actual cause of problems that hinder fertilization. Semen analysis is a well-known fertility test to assess the quality and quantity of sperm. Couples who are unable to get pregnant for one year after regular sexual intercourse can opt for this test to diagnose male fertility conditions.
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Semen analysis is a lab test that helps in identifying potential problems related to sperm production and function, causing fertility issues. It is a test that examines the semen under the microscope to know the important features of sperm, like sperm count , motility and sperm morphology, and various other parameters like viability, pH, infection etc.
Semen is a fluid that comes out from the penis after an orgasm. The semen from a fertile male contains millions of gametes called sperm. The sperm enters the female reproductive tract through the vagina during sexual intercourse, it reaches the egg ( female gamete) which is waiting inside the fallopian tube, where it is then fertilized.
You may need semen analysis in two situations.
● Fertility Problems: Couples who face trouble in getting pregnant naturally may suffer from either male or female fertility issues. A semen quality assessment is done for men to detect the actual cause of infertility.
● After Your Vasectomy: Semen analysis is done as a follow-up after a vasectomy to make sure there are no sperm in the semen after the surgery. It ensures the success of the vasectomy procedure.
You would be provided with a wide, sterilized container to collect your semen sample. You can masturbate in a private room and collect all the semen that you ejaculate. Wash your penis and hands before you masturbate to avoid contaminating the semen sample. You may need to repeat the test a week apart as sperm count varies from day to day.
When you decide to go for male fertility evaluation, consult a fertility specialist. Your doctor may ask about your medical history before proceeding to semen analysis. This is followed by physical examination including genital examination. You must avoid sexual activity, i.e. refrain from ejaculation for a few days (2-7 days) before semen analysis. This helps to provide a semen sample with a high sperm count.
When you go for a semen analysis for a fertility test, the result of the analysis includes the following.
Semen Volume: It is the amount of semen in the sample
Sperm Density: It is the concentration of the semen, i.e., the number of sperms present per millilitre of the semen sample.
Sperm Structure: It gives the shape and size of the sperm.
Sperm motility: It is how active the sperm is and its ability to swim.
Vitality: It is the percentage of live sperm present in the semen sample.
Infection: The presence of white blood cells in the sample indicates infection.
Your semen should contain the following if you have good reproductive health.
● Actively motile sperms
● The sperm head looks oval shaped with a tail
● Good sperm count
● The pH level is not too acidic
● The semen fluid turns into liquid timely so it can travel through the vagina and uterus.
The following gives you the normal range of various parameters of semen analysis
pH level - 7.2 to 8.0
Semen Concentration - >15 million per millilitre
Semen Volume - >1.4 millilitres
Sperm Motility - > 42 percent
Sperm Morphology - > 4 percent
Vitality - >54 percent
Time of Liquefaction -15 to 30 minutes
If you have abnormal semen analysis reports, then the chance of conceiving is very low. The following may be the cause of abnormal semen analysis results
● Habits like smoking and drinking can lead to abnormal semen analysis results.
● Being obese can affect the quantity of sperm produced.
● Exposure to heat in the workplace can affect the testicle function.
● Stress is a key factor that can affect your sperm production.
● Physical injury or medical-related issues with your testicles can affect the sperm quality.
● Infections can lead to abnormal semen analysis results.
● Genetic disorders including chromosomal abnormalities can result in abnormal semen analysis results.
● If you suffer from preexisting medical conditions that may cause abnormal semen analysis results.
There are no risks associated with the semen analysis procedure. It is a safe procedure to diagnose fertility issues in men. There is no physical harm or discomfort during the procedure.
Maintain Ideal Weight: Make sure you reduce your weight through proper workout and diet restrictions, as being obese can affect your sperm production.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet can help to improve the quality and quantity of sperm.
Sleep Well: Adequate sleep at night can help boost your sperm production.
Quit Smoking and Drinking: Smoking and alcohol can significantly affect sperm production and decrease motility.
Reduce Stress: Get involved in activities that help you reduce your stress.
Semen analysis is an important test carried out to diagnose male fertility issues. It is a simple procedure and helps to assess the sperm count, structure, motility and volume. It helps your doctor to know the type of fertility issue which might be leading to problems in getting pregnant. Make sure you provide the entire ejaculated semen sample for better results. It is always recommended to repeat the test for an accurate semen analysis report.
