Semen Analysis
The semen analysis is one of the most important tests in the infertility evaluation. It should be performed before any treatment of the female begins, as male factor infertility is present in 47% of infertile couples. Time and money are often wasted when products such as Clomid are prescribed without documenting the quantity and quality of sperm.
The semen analysis is a relatively inexpensive test and, given its importance, should be performed by an andrologist in a reproductive medicine laboratory. These clinicians have evaluated thousands of samples and are experts in evaluating subtle sperm abnormalities.
Many sperm characteristics are evaluated and include:
- Number of live sperm. Normal = > 20 million per milliliter
- Volume of fluid in the ejaculate.
- Viscosity
- pH
- Ability to liquefy
- Motility (ability to move or swim in a straight line). Normal = > 50%
- Shape and size of the sperm. Normal = >14% “highly normal forms”
- Presence of which blood cells which can indicate infection. Normal= < 5 white blood cells per microscopic field.
Many treatment options now exist for couples with male factor infertility.
See the section on the treatment of male factor infertility for more information.