Sperm count testing, or semen analysis, should be part of every couple’s infertility work-up. Semen analysis is easy when compared to the invasive nature of many female infertility tests. Still, it’s common to feel uneasy about any medical testing, and men are often nervous about receiving the results of a semen analysis.
The sperm count test is often forgotten, especially if infertility evaluations are not done by a reproductive specialist. Since gynecologists tend to focus on a woman’s health, a sperm count test may not be offered when you see your gynecologist for an infertility evaluation. In addition, the sperm count test may be overlooked if you have previously been diagnosed with an infertility problem. Making sure to have a semen analysis done at the beginning of infertility testing may save you heartbreak, and probably money, in the long run. It is important to keep in mind that while one-third of infertility cases involve a problem with just the woman, one-third of infertility cases are a problem with just the man, and the final third involves problems with both the man and the woman.
So – just what do you need to know about semen analysis? There are several points to remember regarding this infertility test. You will need to abstain from intercourse for at least two to three days prior to taking the test. The semen sample should be taken no less than two to three days after sexual intercourse, and no more than seven days as recommended by The American Society of Reproductive Medicine. They also advise that at least two samples are submitted for testing, and they should be collected about a month apart. So be prepared to take the test twice.
The semen sample is most often collected by self-stimulation into a sterile container. It is possible, however, to use specialized condoms, so a semen sample can be obtained during sexual intercourse. Only a specialized condom can be used because there are some chemicals used in regular condoms that can damage the sperm specimen. If you typically use a lubricant, be sure to ask your doctor about which lubricants are “sperm-friendly”.
If you live fairly close to your fertility clinic, it is quite possible that you can gather your sperm sample at home. You will just need to use a sterile container provided by the doctor for the collected sample. However, if you live very far from the fertility clinic, it might be necessary to give the sample at the office. A semen sample should be evaluated within two hours for the most accurate results.
A sperm count test not only determines the total number of sperm, it also looks at the sperm’s size and shape, as well as how they swim and in which direction. There are many other factors reviewed in the sperm analysis process, including the color of the semen, how it clumps and liquefies, and the volume of semen collected.
You may be wondering what numbers your doctor will be looking for. Research shows that a total of at least 40 million sperm per ejaculation is needed for prime male fertility, with a sperm concentration of 20 million per milliliter. In some situations, however, the number of sperm may be normal, but the other factors checked are less than optimal in the semen. When the other factors are abnormal, pregnancy is difficult to achieve.
If any of the test results come back as abnormal, the next step is to find out what may be causing the abnormalities in order to possibly correct any problems. If your doctor feels that the identified problem is not correctable, other fertility treatments will most likely be recommended.
If you are experiencing problems getting pregnant, the Center of Reproductive Medicine is available to answer your questions and to schedule an appointment with one of our infertility specialists. Our experienced fertility doctors will work closely with you to choose the best fertility program for your individual reproductive needs.
For information regarding infertility treatment and support in the greater Houston area, be sure to contact the Center of Reproductive Medicine at (281) 332-0073. The knowledgeable and friendly staff will answer your questions and provide the guidance you need. Our goal is to provide a positive and nurturing experience for all patients.