Semen Analysis

The Semen Analysis is the first test done for the male in the evaluation of an infertile couple. The test is done after 2-7 days of sexual abstinence. The sample is collected in the laboratory and it is essential to follow the instructions for collection, to get a quality report. The complete sample should be collected without any spilling.

There are two parts to the semen that is ejaculated normally

• The spermatozoa or the male germ cells - a result of sperm production by the testis
• The fluid in which the spermatozoa are suspended - a collection of secretions from accessory glands

Before a baseline data is made on the semen quality, a minimum of two samples with about 3-4 weeks interval are examined. Semen is a highly variable biological fluid and hence any two samples may not have similar values though not with a wide margin of difference. And, analysing the spermatozoa population from the ejaculate does not provide information on the fertilising ability of the few spermatozoa that reach the egg during fertilisation. Due to its high variability both within and between men, semen characteristics should only be considered as a reference and not as an absolute indication of male fertility status.

The quality of spermatozoa including the motility, morphology and vitality are more important than the absolute numbers - Sperm concentration or Sperm count.