Semen sample and semen analysis
Why do a semen analysis?
Male factor infertility contributes to 40% of cases of infertile couples. The presence of abnormal sperm parameters, found during a semen analysis, is used to diagnose male infertility. Although we are able to obtain a lot of useful information from a semen analysis, the quality of one sample can vary from the next and thus a repeat analysis performed by an experienced embryologist at a Medicus clinic may be requested.
What is being examined?
Diagnosing male infertility involves a number of steps. The findings of an initial semen analysis can be used to carry out further investigations including a general physical examination, hormone profile and genetic testing. This will allow us to find potential causes, and provide you with advice on conceiving either naturally or with the help of assisted conception.
Here at Medicus, we provide you with accurate and reliable semen analysis results. If necessary, these results can also be used to come up with a plan to potentially improve your sperm quality. Below are a number of important sperm parameters that are known to affect fertility.
Factors affecting male fertility
- Concentration
- Motility
- Semen volume
- Round cell concentration
- Degree of DNA damage with the use of the Sperm Comet test
- viscosity
- pH of semen
What do I do?
Ideally we recommend an abstinence period of 2-3 days before the test. Below we have outlined the process step by step.
In certain circumstances we may recommend a further in-depth analysis known as the sperm comet test. This test examines the degree of sperm DNA damage and is performed in collaboration with the British lab Examination. Read more about the sperm comet test here.
1. Contact us to make an appointment
We will find a time that suits you. You can either come in to produce a sample at Medicus or drop off a sample produced at home.
2. Sample production – at the clinic or at home
If you prefer to produce the sample at home please be informed that the sample needs to be delivered within 60 minutes of production and kept as warm as possible until it drops off. You can pick up a sterile pot at Medicus beforehand.
3. results
Results will be available on the same day and we can get them back to you using your preferred method. We will explain the results to you, inform you what they indicate and give you advice on what can be done going forward. And of course we will answer any questions you may have.
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