Semen Analysis

Male infertility evaluation: It is one of the tests performed for infertility evaluation when pregnancy does not occur despite regular unprotected intercourse for a year.

Post-vasectomy evaluations: Vasectomy is a permanent birth control method in men in which the sperm ducts are tied off, and semen analysis is used to check whether the procedure was successful.

Evaluation of treatment success: When infertility treatment is started in men, semen analysis must be performed before and after treatment to predict the treatment's success.

How Is Semen 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 use of lubricants should be avoided when providing the sample. The semen is collected in a sterile container. Sexual abstinence (avoiding sexual intercourse or masturbation) for 3-4 days before the test is recommended.

Sample Evaluation: Once 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, further tests may be required. Tests performed to evaluate sperm DNA damage are called sperm DNA damage tests.

When Is the Spermiogram Test Performed?

Before a sperm analysis is performed, individuals need to have practiced sexual abstinence for between 2 and 5 days. With less than 2 days or more than 5 days of sexual abstinence, the chance of making an effective evaluation is low.

What Are the Normal Values of the Spermiogram Test?

Spermiogram test results are compared against the normal values established by the World Health Organization (WHO). Spermiogram test values;

Sperm Count: In a normal spermiogram, there should be 15 million sperm per milliliter or more.

Total Sperm Count: In a normal ejaculate, the total sperm count should be 39 million or more.

Sperm Motility: In a normal semen sample, the total motility rate should be more than 40%, and at least 32% of these motile sperm should show rapid progressive movement.

Sperm Morphology: The proportion of normally shaped sperm is expected to be at least 4%.

Semen Volume: In a normal semen sample, the volume should be 1.5 ml or more.

Semen pH: In a normal spermiogram, the pH value of the semen should be between 7.2 and 8.0.

Treatment Based on Semen Analysis Results

Spermiogram results can vary over different time periods. Results depend directly on the experience of the biologist evaluating the spermiogram, which is essential for making an accurate assessment. Some results help determine a man's infertility but do not provide a definitive conclusion. If abnormal results are detected on a spermiogram test, it is appropriate to have the test reported again at a different time and by more experienced personnel.

If semen analysis results are abnormal, treatment may be needed. Treatment varies depending on the underlying cause.