Semen Analysis

Semen analysis is a vital diagnostic test in the journey of fertility, helping to identify male reproductive health issues that may be affecting a couple’s ability to conceive. At Khurana Hospital and IVF Centre, we offer semen analysis as part of our comprehensive fertility services, providing men with valuable insights into their sperm health.

What is Semen Analysis?

A semen analysis is a laboratory test that evaluates the health of sperm in a semen sample. It helps identify potential issues such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, or abnormal sperm shape, which can hinder the chances of successful conception. The test assesses several important factors, including sperm concentration, motility (movement), morphology (shape), volume, and overall semen quality.

Why is Semen Analysis Important?

Semen analysis is typically one of the first tests recommended for men when a couple faces challenges in getting pregnant. The test is crucial in determining if male infertility is the underlying cause of difficulty in conceiving. The findings from the analysis help doctors create a targeted treatment plan to improve sperm health and fertility.

Key Factors Tested in Semen Analysis

• Sperm Count (Concentration):

  • This measures the number of sperm present in the semen. A normal sperm count is around 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Low sperm count, known as oligospermia, may reduce the chances of conception.

• Sperm Motility (Movement):

  • Motility refers to how well sperm move. Healthy sperm should swim in a straight line to reach and fertilize the egg. Poor motility can make it difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

• Sperm Morphology (Shape):

  • The shape of sperm plays a key role in fertilization. Normal sperm have an oval head and a long tail, while abnormal sperm may have irregular shapes, which can hinder the fertilization process.

• Semen Volume:

  • Semen volume is another key factor. The typical volume of semen in a sample is between 1.5 to 5 milliliters. Low semen volume can affect the ability of sperm to reach the egg.

• Sperm Viability:

  • This test determines the percentage of living sperm in the sample. A high number of dead sperm can indicate issues with sperm quality.

• White Blood Cells:

  • The presence of white blood cells in the semen may indicate an infection or inflammation in the reproductive tract, which could affect sperm quality.

• pH Level:

  • The pH level of the semen indicates whether the semen is too acidic or too alkaline. Abnormal pH levels may suggest underlying health issues that could impact fertility.

How is Semen Analysis Performed?

The process of semen analysis is simple and non-invasive:

• Sample Collection:

  • The patient provides a semen sample through masturbation in a private room at the hospital. It’s advised to abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days before the test for accurate results.

• Laboratory Testing:

  • The sample is then sent to the laboratory, where it’s analyzed under a microscope. The lab will assess the sperm count, motility, morphology, and other factors affecting sperm health.