Why Is a Semen Analysis Performed?

Semen analysis is performed to evaluate a man's reproductive ability. The reasons for performing a semen analysis are as follows:

Infertility evaluation: In cases where pregnancy has not occurred despite one year of unprotected intercourse, an infertility evaluation is initiated. Semen analysis helps determine male infertility.

Post-vasectomy evaluations: Vasectomy is a permanent birth control method for men, and semen analysis is used to check whether the procedure has been successful.

Treatment success evaluation: When infertility treatment is initiated in men, a semen analysis must be performed to predict the success of the treatment. Semen analysis is done to evaluate sperm count, motility, and morphology (shape and structure).

When Is a Spermiogram Test Performed?

Before a semen analysis, individuals should abstain from sexual activity for 4 to 5 days. If abstinence is less than 4 days or more than 5 days, the chances of making an effective evaluation decrease. The semen analysis is performed after 4 to 5 days of sexual abstinence.

What Are the Normal Values of a Spermiogram Test?

The results of the spermiogram test are compared with the normal values defined by the World Health Organization (WHO). The spermiogram test values are:

Sperm Count: A normal spermiogram should have 15 million or more sperm per milliliter.

Total Sperm Count: A normal ejaculate should contain 39 million or more total sperm.

Sperm Motility:At least 40% of the sperm should be motile, and at least 32% of these motile sperm should show rapid forward progression.

Sperm Morphology: The percentage of normally shaped sperm should be at least 4%.

Semen Volume: A normal ejaculate should have a semen volume of 1.5 ml or more.

Semen pH: In a normal spermiogram, the pH value of semen should be between 7.2 and 8.0. These are average normal values, and in some individuals, results outside this range may also be considered normal.

These values help determine male infertility, but they do not provide a definitive result. If the spermiogram test shows abnormal results, further tests and evaluations may be necessary.

How Is a Spermiogram Analysis Performed?

Spermiogram analysis is performed in a laboratory setting. The following steps are followed before and after the test:

Sample Collection: A semen sample is obtained from the patient through masturbation. The sample is collected in a sterile container. Sexual abstinence (avoiding intercourse or masturbation) for 4–5 days is recommended before the test.

Sample Evaluation: After the sample is brought to the laboratory, various tests are performed. First, the volume and pH value of the semen are measured.

Microscopic Examination: The sample is then examined under a microscope. During this examination, sperm count, motility, and morphology (shape and structure) are evaluated.

Advanced Tests: In some cases, more advanced tests may be required. These may include tests to check for the presence of anti-sperm antibodies, tests to assess sperm DNA damage, and others.