What is a semen analysis?
A lab test called a semen analysis involves examining a sample of semen under a microscope. It assesses characteristics like sperm count, motility, and morphology.
Who needs a semen analysis?
You could need a semen analysis for the following causes:
Male infertility: There can be an anomaly in the couple’s semen if they have been experiencing trouble conceiving. Sometimes it’s because of a problem with a man’s sperm. A semen study determines whether a man can actually become pregnant.
Vasectomy: A vasectomy’s success is determined by a semen analysis. This treatment closes the sperm-depositing tubes in the semen. If there are no sperm in the semen, the vasectomy was successful and a man is unable to conceive a child with a woman.
What do results look like for male fertility testing?
The laboratory compares your semen’s properties to predicted values. Your semen need to include:
- Sperm that are active and have a single, rounded head and tail.
- A specific quantity of sperm.
- Keep your pH from being overly acidic.
- Fluid that transforms into liquid quickly in order to pass through a woman’s reproductive system.
What do abnormal results mean for my ability to help a woman conceive?
You have a lower than average chance of getting a woman pregnant if the results are abnormal. However, a semen analysis does not serve as the sole indicator of male infertility.
- Obstructions that stop the body’s sperm from being released into semen.
- Infection.
- Sperm count is low.
- Low testosterone levels or aberrant hormone levels.
- Pharmaceutical side effects or other health problems