What is the semen analysis? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is semen analysis?
It is a test that measures the quantity and quality of sperm and semen. It is also known as sperm count or male fertility test. It checks how well the sperm are released, and shaped, and their motility.
Semen is a thick fluid released from a male’s penis during sexual activity. It contains sperms which fertilize with the female egg to form an embryo.
Also Read: Infertility Treatment
Why should I get it done?
If you and your partner are dealing with infertility after a year of trying, this test helps you find out the cause if it is because of:
- Low sperm count
- Shape of sperms
- Low sperm motility
What is it used for?
It is used to check for:
- Male infertility- due to low sperm count or sperm not moving properly
- Vasectomy – if it has been successful. It is a permanent method of birth control in males.
What does semen analysis measure?
Semen analysis checks for:
Sperm count (concentration) – The normal sperm count in a healthy male is at least 15 million sperm per milliliters of semen.
Sperm motility – 50% of your total sperm count should be active.
Sperm shape (morphology) – The shape and size of sperm affect the process of fertilization. Normally, 4% of sperms of your sperm sample are well shaped.
In addition to these parameters, semen analysis provides information about the following:
Semen volume – It checks for the quantity of semen required to perform the analysis. At least 1.5 milliliters or half a tablespoon of semen is required to perform the test.
Semen pH – It measures the acidity of your semen. The normal pH of semen should be between 7.1 and 8.0. An abnormal pH affects the quality of your sperm.
Semen liquefaction – It measures the time taken by the semen to become liquid from a thick consistency. Normally it takes 20 minutes.
Fructose level – If there is no sperm in your semen sample, the healthcare providers look for seminal fructose. If fructose is also absent, it indicates a blockage in the seminal pathway.
White blood cells (leukocytes) – It indicates an infection in the semen.
Does it help in diagnosing male infertility?
It is important to understand that abnormal semen parameters don’t always indicate male infertility. Males with abnormal semen parameters can still be fertile. Semen analysis isn’t a true indicator of fertility.
