What Does a Sperm Count Analysis Involve?
By Justin DiMateo
http://www.FertilityLeaders.com
Page 1
A sperm analysis can be a valuable tool in diagnosing problems with a man's sperm. Couples who are having trouble conceiving often turn to fertility specialists to help them figure out what is causing their infertility, and ultimately what they can do to improve their chances of conception. During a visit to a fertility specialist, the couple should expect a lot of questions, examinations and even a few tests.
For men, one of the most common tests is a sperm analysis, also referred to as a semen analysis. This test is designed to indicate the sperm count, motility and the quality of sperm produced by the male.
Once this test has been completed, the fertility doctor and the couple will have a better idea of whether there is a problem with the male's sperm, and if so, how they may improve their fertility.
To give a semen sample, the man must remain abstinent for two to four days prior to the analysis. Men are usually asked not to have sex or masturbate for this period.
This allows for a more concentrated sample for examination. At the clinic or doctor's office, the man will masturbate into a clean bottle, which is turned over to the laboratory.
http://www.FertilityLeaders.com
Page 2
Once provided, the sample is kept at room temperature in the sealed, clean container for about a half an hour. Thirty minutes are usually required for the semen to liquefy for examination. After the appropriate waiting period, the doctor will then check the sample for various characteristics. These include the volume of the ejaculate, the thickness of the semen and the presence of fructose. Men with low volume ejaculation may indicate problems with the seminal vesicle. Semen that is thick after liquefaction may indicate an infection of the seminal vesicles or prostate. Fructose is necessary to give sperm energy, and its absence may mean a block in the in the male reproductive tract. Sperm motility is also checked during a sperm analysis. Sperm should swim forward quickly and in a straight line, as this is required to swim to the egg for fertilization. Other characteristics that are checked during this test include semen pH, the form of the sperm, any clumping of sperm that may inhibit motility, and the presence or absence of pus cells.
Once a sperm analysis is complete, couples may begin working on treatment solutions, or if sperm is found to be healthy, may begin exploring other tests and examinations.
http://www.FertilityLeaders.com
Page 3