In the current fertility trend, men too face fertility challenges. Fertility test for men involves semen analysis. Based on analysis results, male fertility problems can be detected. Semen analysis, commonly referred to as a sperm count test, evaluates the viability and health of a man’s sperm. It is the cornerstone investigation in male partner evaluation. Let’s examine how to analysis men fertility in more detail in this blog.
WHAT IS SEMEN ANALYSIS
A semen analysis is a testing procedure that examines a sample of semen under a microscope. Further, it looks at features such as sperm quantity, activity (motility), and shape (morphology). If you and your partner are having trouble getting pregnant, it is probably one of the first tests your doctor may ask for. Sperm are usually produced in the testes of male genital organs and stored in the epididymis.
During sexual arousal and ejaculation, sperm are released and get mixed with secretions from the seminal vesicle and prostate to form semen that is ejaculated. Semen, a thick fluid produced by men’s penis, carries sperm out of a man’s body. When the sperm meets the egg, the embryo is formed after fertilization.
HOW SEMEN ANALYSIS IS DONE
You must give a sample of your sperm to your doctor for a semen analysis. Normally, masturbation is used to gather semen samples. Moreover, masturbation is considered the most effective way to obtain a clean sample. Meanwhile, a good sample can be obtained after 2 to 7 days of abstinence (not engaging in sexual activity).
EVALUATIONS FROM SEMEN ANALYSIS
The study of the semen sample gives information regarding the total sperm number, their motility morphology, viability, and any infections. Depending on the semen report, blood tests may be used to check for diabetes mellitus, thyroid disorders, renal diseases, liver diseases, and male hormones.
HOW TO FIND NORMALITY IN SEMEN ANALYSIS
The normal range is variable between different population
*Volume- 1.4 to 1.7 ml
*Sperm concentration – 39 x 106 /ejaculate
*Total sperm number -15 x 106 /ml
*Total motility – 40%
*Progressive motility -32%
*Morphology – 4%
*Viability – 58%
The above-mentioned values are the lower reference limit. Abnormal semen parameters will help in further analysis and treatment.
TO CONCLUDE
Thus, the fertility test for men helps to detect infertility in men. Moreover, a clean sample should be provided for the best results. Since the contribution of the male partner to infertility is about 30%, it’s always better to examine both partners simultaneously. An andrologist (an expert in male fertility) will conduct a detailed history and examination of the male partner.
Your andrologist may recommend additional tests if the findings of your semen analysis are abnormal to identify the exact cause of your reproductive problems.
