Semen Analysis

Semen analysis, also known as a sperm count test, is a laboratory test performed to evaluate the quality and quantity of sperm in a man’s semen. It is one of the primary tests used to assess male fertility and diagnose potential causes of infertility. Semen analysis provides valuable information about sperm concentration, motility (movement), morphology (shape), and other parameters that are crucial for successful fertilization. Here’s an overview of the key components evaluated in a semen analysis:

1. Sperm Count (Sperm Concentration):
   • Sperm count measures the number of sperm present in one milliliter (mL) of semen. It is expressed as millions of sperm per milliliter (million/mL) or millions per ejaculate.
   • Normal sperm count: Typically, a sperm count of 15 million sperm per milliliter or more is considered normal. However, fertility can still be affected by factors such as sperm motility and morphology.
2. Sperm Motility:
   • Sperm motility refers to the ability of sperm to move actively and swim forward effectively. Motility is classified into different categories based on the speed and quality of movement:
     • Progressive motility: Sperm that swim forward in a straight line or large circles.
     • Non-progressive motility: Sperm that move but do not swim forward in a straight line.
     • Immotile: Sperm that show no movement.
   • Normal sperm motility: At least 40% of sperm should demonstrate progressive motility, and at least 32% should demonstrate progressive and non-progressive motility combined.
3. Sperm Morphology:
   • Sperm morphology refers to the size, shape, and structure of sperm cells. Abnormal sperm morphology can affect fertility by reducing the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg.
   • Morphology analysis typically involves assessing the percentage of sperm with normal shape and structure, as well as identifying abnormalities such as double heads, double tails, or other defects.
   • Normal sperm morphology: At least 4% of sperm should have normal morphology, as per the World Health Organization (WHO) criteria.
4. Volume:
   • Semen volume measures the total amount of fluid ejaculated during ejaculation. It is an indicator of the function of the seminal vesicles and other accessory glands that contribute to semen production.
   • Normal semen volume: Typically, semen volume ranges from 1.5 to 5 milliliters per ejaculate.
5. pH Level:
   • Semen pH measures the acidity or alkalinity of semen. pH levels can influence sperm motility and viability.
   • Normal semen pH: pH levels should typically be between 7.2 and 8.0.
6. Liquefaction Time:
   • Liquefaction refers to the process by which semen changes from a gel-like consistency to a more liquid form shortly after ejaculation. Delayed liquefaction may indicate problems with sperm function or the function of accessory glands.
   • Normal liquefaction time: Semen should liquefy within 30 minutes to one hour after ejaculation.
7. Other Parameters:
   • Presence of white blood cells: Elevated levels of white blood cells in semen may indicate inflammation or infection.
   • Presence of round cells: Round cells in semen may include immature sperm cells or other types of cells, which can provide additional information about testicular function.