Semen Analysis: What It Reveals About Male Fertility

Introduction

Infertility concerns nearly one in six couples around the world, with male factors accounting for nearly half of all cases. Male infertility, however, is often neglected until a couple is trying to conceive. A semen analysis is a major test for assessing and evaluating sperm health and fertility potential in men. For context, a semen sample is the amount of a man's ejaculate, which contains sperm and seminal fluid. Moreover, this analysis gives comprehensive information about the sperm, which helps the doctor to identify the reason for a man's infertility.

What is Semen Analysis?

Sperm is the fundamental unit of conception; however, it is not sufficient simply to know that there are sperm, but also how many and how the sperm swim through the genital tract towards the egg. A semen analysis allows doctors to identify possible issues that may affect a couple's chances of getting pregnant.

Usually, a semen analysis looks at the following factors:

• Sperm concentration : It is the measurement of how many sperm are in a sample of semen. Sperm count, on the other hand, is also the measure of sperm, but in one millilitre of that sample.
• Motility : How well sperm swim, and whether they are swimming forward towards the egg or not.
• Morphology : The shape and structure of sperm and whether the shape affects the ability to fertilise.
• Volume and pH : The overall characteristics of the semen, including how much ejaculate is produced and whether it is acidic or alkaline.

How is the Test Performed?

Semen analysis is a simple test, but it is important to collect the sample properly in order to obtain accurate results. Because sperm count and quality can change on a daily basis, multiple samples can be recommended by your doctor, ideally at least a few weeks apart, to get accurate results.

Collecting the Semen Sample

The most typical means of providing a semen sample is through masturbation, either at home or in a private, comfortable room at a fertility clinic or laboratory. However, make sure to follow these guidelines while doing so:

• Hygiene : Wash your hands and the genital area before collecting the sample.
• Sterile container : Use the sterile wide-mouthed jar given by the clinic (it will be labelled with your name and collection number).
• Avoiding contamination : Do not touch inside the jar. If any semen spills out or misses the jar entirely, do not try to "rescue" it.

Transporting the Sample

If it is collected at home, take the sample to the lab within one hour. Make sure to keep the sample at room temperature (around 20°C/68°F), as extreme temperatures could change the sperm quality and volume.

Parameters Measured in Semen Analysis

Understanding the Results

Results from a semen analysis are assessed as a whole, rather than as individual numbers. That is, it can give the following two results:

Normal results:

Normal results suggest that there are sufficient healthy sperm that are moving and shaped well; thus, the chances of natural conception are higher. However, even normal results are understood with the medical history and other factors regarding fertility to gain a complete understanding.

Abnormal results:

Abnormal results are indicative of possibly poor male fertility and generally invoke further investigations. Common abnormal results include:

• Oligospermia : Lower sperm count, which limits the chance of fertilisation.
• Asthenozoospermia : Low motility, meaning the sperm may not reach the egg.
• Teratozoospermia : Increased shape of abnormal sperm, which may affect their ability to fertilise.
• Azoospermia : Absence of sperm, which requires immediate additional tests.

After Abnormal Results

Abnormal semen analysis reports can be alarming, but they don't automatically indicate infertility. In fact, many men with abnormal semen analysis reports can become fathers—either through natural conception or with medical assistance. After the abnormal test report, the doctor may refer additional tests, including:

• Repeat Test : Semen characteristics can change in men due to stress, health or lifestyle factors. Doctors may recommend repeating the semen analysis in 2–3 weeks to verify the abnormality.
• Medical Evaluation : If the follow-up testing demonstrates abnormal results again, then further evaluation should be recommended, such as:
  • Hormone Testing : These tests evaluate hormone levels in the blood that are necessary to regulate sperm production.
  • Scrotal Ultrasound : This test can identify varicocele, blockages, or changes in anatomical structures.
  • Genetic Testing : Detects chromosomal or Y-chromosome abnormalities.
  • Testing for infection : Test for inflammation and sexually transmitted infections that may affect sperm health.

Medical & assisted treatments:

If any preliminary tests are abnormal, the patient may be offered one of several medical and assisted treatments based on their condition and needs. This can include:

• Hormonal therapy may be used if endocrine disorders develop
• Antibiotics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication may be used if an infection occurs
• Surgery on the varicocele may help with testicular function.
• Several assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may also be performed:
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI) for patients with mild impairments.
• In vitro fertilisation (IVF) or Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for severe sperm issues.

When to See a Doctor

Semen analysis is not something you go for in your regular checkups, so pay attention to the signs your body may be giving you to visit a fertility expert:

• Pregnancy hasn’t occurred even after a year of unprotected sex.
• You have a history of testicular injury, surgery, or infection.
• Your semen appears lower in volume or is watery than usual.
• Or having a sexual dysfunction or lower libido.

Conclusion

Finally, it will not be wrong to say that semen analysis is much more than a lab test: It’s a deep understanding of the male reproductive health and overall well-being. The results may look daunting, but they are not meant to be taken literally or as a judgment. With appropriate medical treatment, lifestyle changes, and patience, abnormal results can ultimately combine for success. Male fertility is not one single number, but awareness, action, and hope. Remember that knowledge of your fertility is the first step to taking charge of parenting.