Semen Analysis

A semen analysis, also known as a sperm test or seminogram, is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the quality and characteristics of a man's semen.

Purpose

The purpose of a semen analysis is to assess male fertility and identify potential issues that may be affecting fertility. It can help diagnose conditions such as:

• Low sperm count (oligozoospermia)
• Poor sperm motility (asthenozoospermia)
• Abnormal sperm morphology (teratozoospermia)
• Azoospermia (absence of sperm in the semen)

Procedure

To perform a semen analysis, a man is typically asked to:

• Abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days before the test
• Masturbate and collect the semen sample in a sterile container
• Deliver the sample to the laboratory within 1 hour of collection

Parameters Measured

A semen analysis typically measures the following parameters:

• Sperm concentration (number of sperm per milliliter)
• Total sperm count (total number of sperm in the ejaculate)
• Sperm motility (percentage of moving sperm)
• Sperm morphology (percentage of normal-shaped sperm)
• Volume of semen
• pH level of semen
• Presence of white blood cells or other abnormalities

Normal Values

The World Health Organization (WHO) has established the following normal values for semen analysis:

• Sperm concentration: ≥15 million sperm per milliliter
• Total sperm count: ≥39 million sperm per ejaculate
• Sperm motility: ≥32% moving sperm
• Sperm morphology: ≥4% normal-shaped sperm
• Volume of semen: ≥1.5 milliliters

Interpretation

The results of a semen analysis are interpreted in the context of the individual's medical history and physical examination. Abnormal results may indicate:

• Male factor infertility
• Infection or inflammation
• Hormonal imbalance
• Anatomical issues (e.g., varicocele, obstruction)

Clinical Significance

A semen analysis is an important diagnostic tool in the evaluation of male fertility. It can help identify potential issues and guide further testing or treatment, such as:

• Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) like in vitro fertilization (IVF)
• Surgical interventions (e.g., varicocelectomy)
• Hormonal therapy
• Lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise, stress reduction)