Semen analysis detects fertility issues in men by assessing the quality and quantity of sperm. This involves collecting a semen sample and examining it under a microscope to evaluate sperm count, sperm activity (motility), and shape (morphology).
Difference between Semen and Sperm
Semen is a milky-white discharge that releases from your penis after an orgasm.
It contains a mixture of sperm and fluids from the seminal vesicles, prostate, and other glands to transport a healthy sperm into the egg.
Meanwhile, sperm is a male reproductive cell that contains genetic material (DNA) to fertilize an egg for reproduction. It can stay alive for up to 5 days within the female reproductive system.
When it’s outside the body, it can survive for decades with sperm freezing.
What is Semen Analysis used for?
We use semen analysis to help examine possible problems with your semen or sperm using these measurements:
- Sperm count is the number of sperm in your entire sample.
- Sperm concentration is the number of sperm found within a specific volume of semen, measured per milliliter (million/mL).
- Sperm movement (motility) measures the percentage of sperm actively swimming forward in straight lines or large circles.
- Sperm shape (morphology) assesses the number of sperm in a sample that have a normal shape and structure.
- pH refers to the acidity of your semen.
- Time to liquefaction measures how long it takes for your semen to turn into a fluid within 15 to 30 minutes.
Semen Analysis Procedure
Test Preparation
- Our personnel will conduct the analysis to handle biological samples and operating necessary equipment.
- Microscopes, pipettes, and other relevant equipment are calibrated and maintained regularly.
Sample Collection Methods
- Patients should abstain from harmful substances or sex at least 3 days prior to the fresh semen collection.
- Samples are collected in sterile, wide-mouth containers.
- The samples are kept at body temperature preserved for analysis within 1 hour of collection.
Sample Analysis
- Macroscopic Examination includes Volume Measurement, Color and Consistency and PH Testing
- Microscopic Examination involves Sperm Concentration, Motility, Morphology, Vitality
Documentation and Reporting
- Every observation and measurement are meticulously recorded.
- Then, we will compare the results with reference values provided by the World Health Organization (WHO):
- Volume: Greater than 1.5 milliliters (mL).
- pH, or acidity: 7.2 to 7.8.
- Sperm count: 39 million sperm per ejaculate or more.
- Sperm progressive motility, or the ability to move rapidly: Greater than 32% actively moving.
- Sperm morphology, or the sperm’s shape and size: Greater than 4% normally shaped.
- We will prepare a report summarizing the findings, interpretation, and any recommendations for further testing or consultation.
Quality Control
- We implement regular quality control checks to ensure accuracy and precision in the results.
- FP participates in external quality assurance programs to benchmark against other l
- Participate in external quality assurance programs to benchmark against other laboratories.
Safety and Compliance
- We ensure to follow biohazard safety guidelines for handling human biological samples.
- Our team ensures all patient information is handled confidentially in accordance with HIPAA or relevant privacy regulations.
Why We Recommend Semen Analysis
Semen analysis becomes a crucial step for pinpointing potential hurdles for couples or men struggling to conceive.
Male experiencing unexplained infertility or recurrent miscarriages with their partner might benefit from this tool. It can detect infections or disorders that could affect sperm production.
At Fertility Philippines, we include semen analysis in your IVF package. For more details, contact us and begin your journey today.