When a couple decides that the time has come to grow the family and have a baby, fulfilling those plans is not always so quick. Some couples can take months or even years to get the long-awaited positive result, due to various problems of infertility as a couple. During this period, it may be necessary to have some tests to assess if there is any impediment, such as the semen analysis.
What is the Semen Analysis Test?
The semen analysis is the main test to evaluate male fertility. Its main purpose is to analyze the composition of semen and the physical conditions of the sperm, and it can also point out altered conditions of the prostate.
In addition to semen analysis, the test is also known in medicine as sperm count, semen analysis, and seminal cytology.
How is the Semen Sample Collected?
The semen analysis test is performed manually, through masturbation. Clinics and laboratories provide a private space for the collection, as well as incentives and stimulants, such as magazines and films.
Some laboratories allow the sample to be collected at home, as long as the delivery time to the lab does not exceed 30 minutes. After this period, the collected material is considered invalid for analysis.
The semen must be collected carefully, without using creams, gels or lubricants, and preferably directly into the collection cup to ensure the reliability of the result. The material should be immediately sent for laboratory analysis.
What Is Analyzed in the Semen Analysis
In the semen analysis, the evaluation is completely descriptive and thorough. All characteristics of the semen are checked, such as volume, viscosity, color, PH level (semen acidity), liquefaction and physical characteristics, as well as the ability of sperm to move (motility).
Through microscopic analysis, the sperm count is checked, along with their vitality, structure, and progression. The levels of white blood cells (leukocytes) present in the sperm are also evaluated.
Normally, two collections are requested with a 15-day interval between them, to compare and confirm the results. If the results show a large alteration, a third test may be needed for confirmation.
Preparation for the Exam
To have the semen analysis, some preparation is necessary, which will be indicated by the laboratory. Sexual abstinence of 2 to 7 days is essential to ensure a satisfactory result and a well-concentrated sample, as well as proper hand hygiene at the time of collection.
IMPORTANT: Sexual abstinence includes not only sexual intercourse but also masturbation or any act that would cause ejaculation. No other precautions such as fasting are necessary.
After collection, no special care is required, and the man can return to his normal routine. There are no risks or contraindications, as the entire analysis procedure is performed in the lab.
How to Read the Semen Analysis Result?
Reading the result of a semen analysis can seem like a real puzzle for the couple. And seeking answers on the internet is not always helpful. On the contrary, it can cause even greater confusion or concern, as laboratory reference ranges are often different.
Rather than playing doctor and trying to guess your results, take them to your physician for evaluation. This is the only way to get a safe and accurate interpretation, and also to understand any abnormalities.
Changes Found in the Semen Analysis Exam
Through a complete semen analysis test, the following changes can be detected:
- Azoospermia – total absence of sperm;
- Oligo-asthenospermia – reduced number of sperm and difficulty reaching the egg.
- Leukospermia – when a high number of leukocytes is found in the seminal fluid, indicating an infection.
- Oligospermia – Below-normal sperm count.
- Athenospermia – Difficulty of the sperm to reach the egg.
- Necrospermia – Most sperm are dead;
- Teratospermia – Abnormal characteristics and shape.
Only a specialist physician can assess the condition and determine the most appropriate treatment. Some conditions can be reversed with treatments or medication, while others may require assisted methods, such as using a sperm bank donation.
When Is Semen Analysis Recommended?
The semen analysis is not considered a routine test and is usually recommended when there is suspicion of a fertility problem. This suspicion usually arises after a year of trying unsuccessfully to conceive.
When seeking help from a specialist, several tests are ordered to assess fertility in both the woman and the man. And the main test to evaluate male fertility is the semen analysis.
The semen analysis is also requested after procedures like vasectomy, to check if it was successful or if there are still live sperm present. Of course, it is necessary to wait for the period recommended by the specialist and for the number of ejaculations recommended to clear out the sperm from the channel.
It may also be indicated to check for possible genital infections or for investigating potential pathologies. Men who have recently undergone cancer treatment may also perform the test to check their fertility, as some medications may cause infertility.
At-Home Semen Analysis
For some men, having the semen analysis is extremely embarrassing and they may refuse to do it. Depending on the situation, the analysis can be done with an at-home semen test, which is a kit purchased at the pharmacy or from specialized websites to perform at home.
The at-home semen analysis is reliable and can offer satisfactory results, but it is not very detailed and will not indicate the presence of diseases or the causes of infertility. The only information provided is whether there are enough sperm present or if the count is below normal, indicating that a specialist should be consulted.
IMPORTANT: If the result is negative, it is essential to see a urologist for more complete exams such as a semen analysis.
Other Tests to Assess Male Fertility
Along with semen analysis, other tests may be requested by the urologist or the assisted reproduction specialist following the couple. Blood tests for hormone level analysis, genetic tests, and screening for infectious diseases may be requested.
Ultrasound of the testicles, biopsy, and testicular aspiration may also be included for a more comprehensive range of exams. The clinical examination is also crucial to investigate and clarify all possible causes.
Clinical analysis can also indicate by the size and anatomy of the testicles whether there are signs of problems, such as varicocele. However, even with all these exams, the most complete and detailed information is provided by the full semen analysis.
Can Anything Affect the Semen Analysis Results?
If the preparation indicated by the laboratory—sexual abstinence for the recommended period—has not been done, the semen analysis result may not be reliable. The more days since the man’s last ejaculation, the more concentrated the material to be analyzed will be.
The semen analysis is a test that should be interpreted within the context of when it was performed, and results may change after days, weeks, or even months. Therefore, if a change is noted, the best course of action is to repeat the semen analysis to confirm.
Depending on the change identified by the urologist, some methods can be used to supplement or improve semen quality. That is why it is essential for a specialist to review the results to assess the situation and recommend the best treatment and fertility management.
Photo: Janice Haney Carr Content Providers(s)
