- What is a semen analysis?
- Who needs to have a semen analysis?
- Where can I have my semen analysis done?
- How should I collect the sample?
- What about sexual abstinence?
- What are the normal values for a semen analysis?
- Glossary of terms
A semen analysis evaluates the seminal characteristics of the ejaculate, in order to assess whether there are any deficiencies that may impair fertilization and subsequent pregnancy. The various parameters tested are:
- Semen volume
- Sperm concentration
- Sperm count
- Percentage motile sperm
- Grade of motility
- Normal sperm morphology
These parameters allow us to detect if there are any problems with the reproductive system, so that you and your physician may isolate the problem and treat it efficiently and effectively.
Who needs to have a semen analysis?
Anyone who is having trouble conceiving should have a semen analysis done. In about 40% of infertile couples, the cause of the infertility lies with the males, and this could easily and quickly be diagnosed via a semen analysis.
Where can I have my semen analysis done?
There are many centers and labaratories, even on the web, that offer semen analysis. However, please note that many centers do not perform a comprehensive analysis, leaving out some key tests or parameters that could be crucial in determining the proper and accurate diagnosis of a patient's problem or difficulty. Those labs or facilities that offer semen analysis services over the Internet lack the necessary semen shipper and complete understanding of all principles involved to offer you, the patient, the types of answers that you are looking for. The BioTranz semen shipper is the one and only proven product and technology of its kind.
The Andrology Institute of America (AIA) is an internationally recognized center that deals specifically with the evaluation of male infertility. The AIA performs a detailed analysis and together with the patient history, will make certain recommendations to you and your physician with regards to your treatment. Also, the laboratory facilities at AIA are CLIA certified by the U.S. Department of Health (CLIA, 88).
How should I collect the sample?
We prefer that the sample be collected during intercourse via the use of the Male-Factor Pak", a non-spermicidal condom that has been shown to yield better results than collection via masturbation. The seminal collection condoms are avialable from the Andrology Institute. If needed, the sample may be collected via masturbation or coitus interruptus, but these methods are not recommended.
The sample should be collected after 3-4 days of sexual abstinence. It has been shown that shorter abstinence periods may result in lower sperm counts but possibly higher quality sperm whereas longer periods may yield lower percentage of motile sperm and overall poor quality sperm.
What are the normal values for a semen analysis?
| PARAMETER |
MINIMUM VALUE
|
| Volume (mL) |
2.0
|
| Sperm Concentration (million/mL) |
20
|
| Motility (%) |
50
|
| Forward Progression (0-4) |
3
|
| Normal Morphology (%) (WHO) |
30
|
| Normal Morphology (%) (Strict) |
14
|
| Total Sperm Count (million) |
40
|
| Total Motile Sperm (million) |
20
|
| Total Functional Sperm (million) |
6
|
Glossary of terms
Aspermia: No semen ejaculated
Hematospermia: Blood present in semen
Leucocytospermia: White blood cells present in semen
Azoospermia: No spermatozoa found in semen
Normozoospermia: Normal semen parameters
Oligozoospermia: Low sperm concentration
Asthenozoospermia: Poor motility and/or forward progression
Teratozoospermia: Reduced percentage of morphologicall normal sperm
Necrozoospermia: No live sperm in semen
Globozoospermia: Round headed acrosome-less sperm