Trying to plan a child for a long time, but unable to do so? Do you have symptoms of erectile dysfunction, constant stress, smoking, alcohol, or a BMI greater than 25? All these could be interrelated. A semen analysis could be the possible answer to all this.

Semen is a whitish-greyish fluid that comes out of the penis after orgasm. It contains sperm, fluids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Semen analysis is a lab test performed under a microscope to examine a semen sample. It helps analyse sperm count (sperm quality in the semen), motility (sperm shape), and morphology (sperm activity).

When is the purpose of semen analysis?

You can be asked to get a semen analysis for the following reasons.

Difficulty in conceiving

If you are facing fertility issues like conceiving a child, there could be a possibility of abnormality in the semen. A semen analysis is done to check the sperm health and the probability of causing a pregnancy.

Post-Vasectomy test

Post-vasectomy semen analysis is performed to check the success of vasectomy. A vasectomy helps with permanent birth control that does not allow the sperm (semen) to be released during sex. It is a minor surgery in which the tubes that carry sperm are sealed.

Semen analysis procedure: Step-by-step procedure

If you are a first-time patient looking for a semen analysis test near me, then understanding the semen analysis procedure for male fertility is important. The semen analysis is done in the following three simple steps.

Test preparation

  • Follow all procedures, like avoiding ejaculation and alcohol for a minimum of 5 days, for the best results.
  • If the sample is collected at home, a special sample kit will be sent by post. Ensure it stays warm and send it within an hour.
  • If you wish to share a sample on site, teh clinic will be hygienic and clean for you to give the sample.

Appointment

  • Meet the andrologist at the scheduled time.
  • If you are dropping off your sample, do it within the time limit, and ask additional questions if required.
  • If producing a male semens analysis sample on-site, share the sample, and then you can leave for further process.

Get your results

  • You can expect the result via email within a few working days (mostly 3). Ensure to provide the correct working email.
  • You get a clear explanation from the clinical scientist
  • If you have further queries, you can book a consultation with an expert for further guidance.
  • It is always recommended to get an expert’s help for male fertility-related concerns.

What does semen analysis include?

Semen analysis findings What it determines
Semen Volume The amount of semen present in the sample is semen volume and is measured in millilitres.
pH level pH level is a measure of the semen’s alkalinity or acidity. Higher or lower pH levels can indicate how it can harm sperm health.
Sperm Morphology It tests the shape and size of the sperm
Sperm Concentration It determines the number of sperm per milliliter of semen.
Sperm Motility It determines how well the sperm can swim.
Time to Liquefaction This is the time required for semen to change from a thick liquid to a thin fluid.
White blood cells It is used to determine the white blood cell count in semen, which usually indicates an infection.
Vitality It is the number of sperm that are alive in the semen sample

What should a person do before semen analysis?

There are a few points to keep in mind before a semen analysis. Remember to follow these:

Abstinence from sexual activity

Before the 7 days of the appointment, avoid any sexual activity, masturbation, or sexual intercourse. This is done to ensure that the sample gets the highest sperm quality, and you get to know the exact findings about your sexual health.

No hot baths

Do not do saunas, hot baths, or keep a laptop on your lap because heat due to high temperature can affect the sperm production level.

Avoid alcohol

Alcohol can affect sperm quality. Avoid at least 5 days before giving the sample. People who consume alcohol generally have low semen quality.

Conclusion

Semen analysis is a very important male fertility test and can help you uncover the underlying issue related to the ability to impregnate the female.

Focus on eating a healthy diet, getting timely sleep, and reducing stress so you produce the highest-quality semen for the test. Incorporating healthy eating habits and sleep will help you in the long run as well. Talk to the experts at The Male Fertility Clinic for the best semen analysis and expert consultation to boost sperm quality and health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does a semen analysis test take?

The semen analysis can take 3-7 days. The semen collection happens within an hour.

Is semen analysis painful?

No, a semen analysis is not painful and is a non-invasive test.

Can I do a semen analysis at home?

Yes, you can perform semen analysis at home through over-the-counter kits. But a clinical semen analysis in a lab is the most accurate and provides an in-depth analysis.

What happens if my semen analysis is abnormal?

If semen analysis is abnormal, it directly means that a few parameters did not meet the medical standards of healthy sperm, and you need an expert’s guidance and consultation.

How accurate is a semen analysis test?

A semen analysis test is mostly accurate when performed in a standard clinic. However, a few factors, such as at-home kits, sample collection issues, and the laboratory environment, could lead to slight differences in the results.