If you are having difficulty getting pregnant, the first step is to assess both partners’ fertility. According to research, either partner – the man or the woman – could be infertile. This article will concentrate on male infertility treatment. While sperm parameters are far from perfect, a semen analysis can serve as a guide to the type of treatment a couple may require.
Also Read: Advancements in Azoospermia Treatment: Options and Hope for Fertility
What is Semen Analysis?
Semen analysis is the process by which fertility specialists assess the overall quality of a man’s sperm and semen. A lab technician can test a semen sample for a variety of factors that may affect overall fertility. Many fertility treatments, from in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intrauterine insemination (IUI) to a general diagnosis of infertility, rely on the assessment.
In other words, it includes a detailed sperm analysis that tracks various parameters such as sperm count, concentration, and motility. In comparison to many other tests used in the evaluation of infertile couples, the semen analysis report is globally standardised. The standardization of sperm concentration and sperm volume measurement allows for a more accurate calculation of sperm output.
Also Read: Secondary Infertility – What do you need to know about it?
Role of Semen Analysis test in male infertility treatment
A semen analysis helps check many aspects as mentioned below:
Volume
The volume of a man’s ejaculate is measured in millilitres. The WHO considers 1.5 ml to be the lower reference limit and anything between 1.5 and 5 ml to be normal. Low volumes may indicate a partial or total blockage or dysfunction in the seminal vesicles or prostate.
Sperm Density
Sperm density, also known as sperm concentration, is a measurement of the concentration of sperm in a man’s ejaculate, or how many million sperm per millilitre. A sperm count of 15 million/ml or higher is considered adequate by the WHO. Lower numbers may indicate that the testicles are not producing sperm as they should, which is a sign of male infertility.
Overall Sperm Count
Total sperm count, also known as total sperm number, refers to the total number of spermatozoa in the ejaculate. The lower reference limit (5th percentile) established by WHO is 39 million per ejaculate.
Motility
A semen analysis test also helps in determining sperm motility. It counts the number of moving sperms and categorizes them based on their movement. Motility should be between 40 and 50%. A lower number may indicate that you have been exposed to toxins such as smoking, alcohol, chemicals from your job or hobby, and caffeine. Low motility can also be caused by hormonal imbalances or a varicocele. (varicose veins in the scrotum).
Morphology
The shape of the sperm is referred to as morphology. Male fertility is determined by the percentage of normally shaped sperm. A low number of normally shaped sperm can reduce the likelihood of pregnancy.
pH Level
pH measures the acidity of the sperm. The WHO defines normal as 7.2-7.8.A low pH level indicates that the sperm is acidic, whereas a high pH level indicates that it is alkaline. An abnormal pH can have an impact on sperm health and movement.
Fructose Content
If you are looking forward to an accurate male infertility treatment, checking Fructose content in your sperm is crucial. Fructose is present in normal sperm to provide energy. Fructose deficiency may indicate a problem with the seminal vesicles.
Liquefaction
During ejaculation, normal sperm is thick. Liquefaction time is the amount of time it takes for something to become liquid. It should take between 20 and 30 minutes. If yours takes longer or does not become liquid at all, there could be a problem.
With male infertility accounting for 40-45% of infertility-related cases, it is critical for a couple to ensure that both the male and female are tested for fertility potential. Understand that the man’s fertility levels can help to eliminate a number of possibilities that are thought to be the cause of infertility in the couple.
Seek well-guided male infertility treatment at ZiviaIVF
Some cases of male infertility can be treated by making lifestyle changes. For example, the type of underwear a man wears can have an effect on sperm count. Diet can also cause problems with sperm composition and pH. Depending on your needs, these issues can be discussed in greater depth with your fertility specialist.
Contact our team of fertility specialists at ZiviaIVF today for more information on treating male infertility and how we can assist you. Our fertility specialists will use cutting-edge technology to improve your chances of starting a family.
Book your appointment here!