Semen Analysis Test

This is generally the first test to be performed as it is a much simpler and inexpensive test than most of the tests for women. The semen sample is generally collected at the lab itself (as it has got to be "fresh" for conducting the tests). It can also be collected at home and presented to the lab within an hour's time for analysis. The man should not have ejaculated for 2-5 days before the test. If possible pick a lab that specialises in semen analysis for performing the test. The semen sample must not be "older" than an hour and must be kept at room temperature.

The semen is analysed based on the following factors -

• The volume of the semen and its physical characteristics are analyzed

  Any problem in the seminal fluid can affect the sperm functioning and movement. If the fluid is very thick, the sperm movement towards the cervical mucus slows down. This obstructs the fertilisation process. The absence of semen is called aspermia.

• Count of the sperm in the semen

  A low sperm count is called oligozoospermia. Less than 20 mil sperm per ml is considered to be a low sperm count. The absence of sperms is referrred to as azoospermia. Azoospermia is an indication of testicular failure or the blockage of the path through which the sperm are ejaculated.

• Number of sperm that are moving forward

  If there are a large number of sperms that are slow moving or do not have any motility at all, one probable cause is that the testis is not functioning properly. Slow moving sperm are called asthenozoospermia. 50% of the total number of sperms should be motile.

• Speed at which the sperm is moving

  25% of the total number of sperms should be moving rapidly

• Count of sperm of normal size and shape

  A 15% rate of normal shaped sperms is considered to be normal. A large number of malformed sperms is called teratozoospermia.

• Presence of pus cells

  Presence of a significant number of pus cells is a probable indication of seminal infection

• Fructose level in the semen

  Fructose is the energy source for the sperm. A low fructose level affects the motility of the sperm.

If there are any abnormalities seen in the first sample, you maybe required to retake the test to confirm the diagnosis. If there are abnormalities seen in the semen analysis, the doctor may recommend more tests.