OVERVIEW OF SEMEN ANALYSIS AT A DENVER FERTILITY CLINIC

What Is Semen Analysis?

Semen analysis is a process used to measure the quality and quantity of sperm in a man’s semen. The test is also referred as the sperm count.

Normal Results of the Semen Analysis

The following are some of the standard values found after carrying out a semen analysis:

• A normal ejaculation may have  0.5 to 5.0 milliliter
• One-milliliter seminal fluid should contain over 15 million sperm
• 5% or more of the sperm should have  a normal shape
• 40% of the sperm need to show normal motility

How Is Semen Analysis Done?

Some of the recommended methods used in semen collection include;

• Masturbating into a sterilized cup or jar

• Using a special condom, called a seminal collection device, during sex provided by your Colorado fertility doctor.  These condoms are specially made to be non-toxic to sperm.

After collection, the sample be taken to a laboratory for further testing.

A specialist will need to test your sample within one hour of collection. The semen sample will be tested for the following:

• Sperm motility
• Sperm count
• Volume of the semen sample
• Acidity ( pH) and thickness of the fluid surrounding the sperm cells
• Shape of the sperm

In order to have the best sample for testing it is recommended that the male partner not ejaculate  for about two to three days prior to the semen testing .

What Does Abnormal Semen Analysis Results Mean?

The abnormal results may imply fertility problem. For instance, when the sperm count is low, an individual may have difficulty achieving pregnancy with their partner,  but not in all cases. Alterations in the semen pH and white blood cell count may affect a man’s fertility. However, male infertility may occur due to many factors. Therefore, further testing often is needed if there are any abnormalities detected in the routine semen analysis.

Major Considerations

A man’s fertility may be affected by the following:

• Increased consumption of tobacco
• Alcohol

The semen analysis is a quick easy test which may help identify a cause of your infertility.  It is often one of the first tests done.