What is Semen?
Semen is a bodily fluid released from the male reproductive canal. Semen contains sperm cells that fertilize the eggs of a female. Semen also includes liquids that come together to produce seminal plasma, which aids in preserving the life of the sperm cells.
What is Semen Analysis?
Semen analysis is a laboratory test examining seminal fluid samples to determine their volume, alkalinity or acidity, sperm count, motility, shape, and viability. Examining seminal fluid for any signs of potential male infertility is standard. The doctor will do a semen analysis and take a thorough history, examine both parties physically, and confirm that the woman indeed experiences ovulation. Per millilitre, average semen has more than 60 million sperm. Two hours after ejaculation, more than 60% of the sperm are active, and 80–90% will have proper shape and structure. Poor sperm counts, slow sperm movement, or low motility are potential reasons for infertility.
When do you need to analyze your semen?
You could require a semen analysis for the following causes:
- Male infertility
If a couple has been having trouble becoming pregnant, there may be an issue with the semen. By examining his semen, he can find out if he is infertile.
- Follow-up after a vasectomy
A semen analysis is necessary to understand if the vasectomy worked. If the reports show no sperm is found in the semen, the vasectomy is successful, and a man cannot have a child with a woman.
How does it work?
The preferred method for producing semen is musturbation since it yields a pure sample. Healthcare professionals handle and test the semen using scientifically established procedures. You can get reliable findings by going to a facility focusing on semen analysis. If you are looking for a good clinic, you can visit or request an appointment at Apollo Fertility, Brookefield by calling on 1860-500-4424.
Key factors accounted for during a semen analysis
- Volume
The volume, which indicates the amount of ejaculate present, should be the first figure you look at. At least 1.5 millilitres should be present in the capacity. First, confirm if the collection was done correctly and if the volume is low. Before doing a semen analysis, we advise abstinence for two to five days. Lower ejaculate quantities are usually the result of shorter abstinence intervals.
- Sperm Concentration
The sperm concentration, which indicates how many sperm are in the sample, is the next metric to pay attention to. The average sperm concentration in the ejaculate is 15 million sperm per millilitre (mL). Concentration is crucial since it directly impacts your likelihood of becoming pregnant. Azoospermia, which is a condition where no sperm are discovered in the sample, affects 10-15% of men who are infertile and roughly 1% of all males. Hormonal, genetic, or anatomical issues might cause the presence or absence of sperm. Additional testing may be suggested in this situation by a fertility specialist.
- Sperm Motility
Your possibility of becoming pregnant increases if you have more skilled swimmers. At least 40% of the sperm should move, and at least 32% should be increasingly motile or migrate forward. Low motility, also known as asthenospermia, can be brought on by a person's way of life, a physical condition, or even a hereditary condition. In conclusion, it's critical to speak with a fertility specialist if there are issues with sperm motility.
- Sperm Morphology
A head, midpiece or neck, and tail are the three basic structural components of sperm. The component of the sperm that is important for fertilizing the egg is the head, which is where the DNA, or genetic material, is located. Sperm motility depends on the tail. The best indicator of sperm function is sperm morphology, or shape, which also provides valuable information about the sperm's health. According to studies, when normal morphology is 14% or more, fertilization rates and the likelihood of becoming pregnant are at their best, and at less than 4%, they are at their lowest. More testing is typically required to identify the underlying causes of abnormal morphology, which may be related to hormonal, genetic, or anatomical issues.
Study of the overall health of a semen sample by considering the volume of sperm, Sperm concentration, Sperm motility, and Sperm morphology.
It is very important to get your semen analysis done somewhere trustworthy, as there is a concern of privacy is always there. Apollo Fertility, Brookfield, is an amazing choice for you.
It is recommended to masturbate to provide a sample. Typically, this happens in a lab, in a quiet, cosy space. The sample is placed in a sterile, large-mouthed container. You still have choices if you are unable to masturbate for religious reasons. You can be given a non-lubricated condom by your doctor to use while having sex.