What is semen?
Semen is a whitish-gray liquid that drips out of your penis, generally when you ejaculate. It consists of:
- Sperm: The reproductive cells are called sperm. With their tadpole-like appearance, sperm have a peculiar form. DNA, which fertilises an egg cell, is present in the head. The reproductive system of the female aids it in “swimming” through the egg cell to fertilise it.
- Liquids: You can deposit sperm near the back of the vagina by using the fluids to lubricate your urethra.
- Amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. They support the growth of your sperm cells.
Ejaculate and cum are other terms for semen.
What is semen analysis?
A sperm count test is also referred to as semen analysis. With the test, your fertility can be assured. Form, motility, volume, liquefaction, pH, sperm count, and the appearance of the sperm can also be covered in the result.
Who needs to undergo a semen analysis?
Primarily, a semen analysis will be necessary.
- To test male infertility in infertile couples
- To verify the effectiveness of a vasectomy by examining semen for sperm
What does semen analysis involve?
Depending on the reason, a semen analysis was ordered by a doctor. A semen analysis, for fertility test purposes, evaluates:
- pH scale: The acidity and baseness of your semen make up your pH scale. If your semen is highly acidic, it could affect the health of your sperm.
- Semen volume: The amount of semen in the sample is its semen volume, measured in millilitres.
- Density or concentration of sperm: The quantity of sperm per millilitre of semen is known as the sperm concentration.
- The shape of sperm: Sperm’s shape and size are known as their morphology.
- Sperm motility: Sperm’s ability to swim is known as motility.
- Time to liquefaction: The time it takes for your semen to change from a sticky substance into a fluid is called the time to liquefaction.
How the test is performed?
A sample of your semen will be required. Your doctor will go over with you how the sample is collected.
There are several ways to obtain a sperm sample.
- Masturbating into a sterilised container or cup.
- Using a special condom that the provider has provided you for sexual activity
You should bring the sample into the lab within 30 minutes. If you have been asked to collect your sample at home, keep it in the inside pocket of your coat so that it will remain at body temperature during transportation to the lab.
After collecting a sample, it needs to be reviewed by a laboratory specialist within 2 hours. The sooner the sample is analysed, the more reliable the results will be. What will be assessed in the following:
- How the semen solidifies and then becomes liquid
- Viscosity-resistance to flow
- Motility of the sperm
- Semen volume
- Sperm’s quantity and composition
- Viscosity of the fluid, acidity, sugar content
How to Prepare for the Test?
Abstinence from sexual intercourse to avoid discharge of semen for two to three days before the test will provide an adequate quantity of sperms. This time should not be more than five days because quality would have degraded further at this point.
What to expect after the semen analysis?
A medical professional may arrange for a follow-up semen analysis a few days or weeks following the initial one. Their estimate of your sperm production is more accurate when they analyse multiple semen samples.
Is Semen Analysis Painful?
No, there is no pain or discomfort associated with the non-invasive method of semen analysis.
How can I check my sperm count at home?
Semen tests can be done at home. They only do sperm count tests, though. Sperm motility and morphology are not examined. The following are some options for at-home sperm analysis tests.
Home tests usually provide results in ten minutes or less. Since home tests cannot detect all possible causes of male infertility, a normal sperm count (more than 20 million sperm per millilitre of semen) does not always mean that a man is fertile.
If you are concerned about fertility, then it is better to have your lab test performed by a medical practitioner. You will get a more thorough assessment of your fertility in return.
What normal Results Mean?
The following are some common normal values.
- The normal volume for one ejaculation is 1.5 to 5.0 millilitres.
- There are 20 to 150 million sperm in every millilitre.
- At least 60% of the sperm should have normal motility, or movement in a forward direction, and shape.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Speak with your doctor about what your specific test results mean.
An abnormal result does not show that a man cannot conceive. It’s thus not that clear how one should look upon the test results.
What abnormal results mean?
Abnormal results may indicate a male infertility problem. A man can be considered less fertile in case of a very low or very high sperm count. The acidity of the semen, the presence of white blood cells also known to be signs of an illness, may affect fertility. Sperm abnormalities in their shapes or movements can also be detected through the test.
On the other hand, much about male infertility is not known. Additional testing may be required when abnormalities are present. Infertility in men is due to many treatable causes.
Why Tender Palm IVF & Fertility Center for Semen Analysis in Lucknow, India?
Tender Palm IVF & Fertility Center offers accurate and detailed Semen Analysis in Lucknow, India using advanced laboratory methods. Our Specialists evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology to diagnose male fertility issues. We ensure a confidential, comfortable, and science-driven approach to support your fertility journey with clarity and care.