Semen Analysis: Reading Results and Understanding Their Implications

Semen analysis is the basic and first test that should be performed when male infertility is suspected. This test provides very important information about the quality of sperm and its ability to conceive. At Fertiliv IVF Center, we see daily men who need to understand the results of their semen analysis. This article explains how to read semen analysis results and understand their implications.

What Is Semen Analysis and Why Is It Important?

Semen analysis is a laboratory test in which a sample of semen is examined under a microscope. This test measures several important criteria related to sperm quality. The test helps determine whether there is a fertility problem and what type of problem it is. The test is the cornerstone of assessing male fertility.

Definition of the Test as the Cornerstone of Assessing Male Fertility

Semen analysis gives a clear picture of sperm quality. The test measures the number of sperm, their motility, and their shape. The test helps determine whether there is a fertility problem and helps choose the appropriate treatment. Without this test, male fertility problems cannot be diagnosed accurately.

Conditions and Preparations Required Before the Test to Ensure Accurate Results

To ensure accurate test results, certain conditions and preparations must be followed. Ejaculation must be avoided for 2-7 days before the test. Excessive heat should be avoided before the test (avoid hot baths and tight clothing). Medications and supplements that may affect results should be avoided. The sample should be collected at the right time and delivered to the laboratory within one hour. Contact the Fertiliv team for accurate instructions before the test.

Understanding the Basic Criteria in the Test Report

The semen analysis report contains several basic criteria. Understanding these criteria is very important for understanding the results.

Volume and Viscosity

The normal volume of semen should be at least 1.5 milliliters. If the volume is less than this, it may indicate a problem with the glands attached to the reproductive system. Viscosity refers to the thickness of semen. Normal semen should be viscous initially and then become less viscous after 15-30 minutes. If semen is too viscous or too watery, it may indicate a problem.

pH, Color, and Appearance

The normal pH of semen should be between 7.2 and 8.0. If the pH is lower than this, it may indicate blockage of the vas deferens. The normal color of semen should be white or grayish. If the color is yellow or red, it may indicate a problem. The normal appearance should be cloudy or slightly transparent.

Reading the Three Most Important Fertility Indicators

There are three basic fertility indicators in the semen analysis report. These three indicators are the most important.

Concentration/Count: What Is the Normal Number?

Count refers to the number of sperm in semen. According to World Health Organization standards (WHO 2021), the normal count should be at least 39 million sperm per ejaculate. The normal concentration should be at least 15 million sperm per milliliter. If the count is less than this, the condition is diagnosed as low sperm count (Oligozoospermia). Consult a specialist if the count is low.

Motility: Understanding Progressive and Total Motility

Motility refers to the ability of sperm to move. There are two types of motility: progressive motility and non-progressive motility. Progressive motility means the sperm moves forward in a straight or diagonal line. Non-progressive motility means the sperm moves but not forward. According to World Health Organization standards, the percentage of sperm with progressive motility should be at least 42%. If the percentage is less than this, the condition is diagnosed as poor sperm motility (Asthenozoospermia).

Morphology: Percentage of Normal-Shaped Sperm

Morphology refers to the percentage of sperm with normal shape. According to World Health Organization standards, the percentage of normal shapes should be at least 4%. This means that even in normal semen, there may be a high percentage of abnormally-shaped sperm. If the percentage of normal shapes is less than 4%, the condition is diagnosed as sperm morphology abnormalities (Teratozoospermia).

Important Terms You May Find in Your Report

You may find several terms in your report that may seem complicated. Understanding these terms is very important.

Explanation of Terms Such as Oligozoospermia, Asthenozoospermia, Teratozoospermia

Oligozoospermia means low sperm count. Asthenozoospermia means poor sperm motility. Teratozoospermia means sperm morphology abnormalities. You may also find the term Azoospermia which means complete absence of sperm. You may also find the term Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia which means problems with count, motility, and shape all together.

Meaning of the Presence of White Blood Cells (WBCs) in the Sample

The presence of white blood cells in the sample may indicate inflammation or infection in the reproductive system. The normal number of white blood cells should be less than 1 million per milliliter. If the number is more than this, it may indicate prostatitis or seminal vesiculitis. The man may need antibiotic treatment.

What After the Test? Next Steps

After receiving the test results, certain steps must be followed.

When Is the Test Considered Normal?

The test is considered normal if all criteria are within the normal range. This means the count should be at least 39 million, progressive motility should be at least 42%, and normal shapes should be at least 4%. If all these criteria are normal, there is no fertility problem in terms of sperm quality.

When Should the Test Be Repeated or Additional Tests Be Performed?

If the results are abnormal, the doctor may request a repeat test. Repeating the test is very important because results may vary from time to time. If the results are abnormal both times, the doctor may request additional tests such as hormonal analysis or ultrasound examination. Contact the Fertiliv team to discuss the results and next steps.

Semen analysis is a very important test that helps assess male fertility. Understanding the test results is very important for making the right decision about treatment. If the results are normal, there is no fertility problem in terms of sperm quality. If the results are abnormal, there are several treatment options available.

It is important to seek help from a specialist to understand the test results correctly. At Fertiliv IVF Center, we have the expertise to interpret test results and provide appropriate consultation.

If you want a deeper understanding of your test results, contact the Fertiliv team via WhatsApp for specialized consultation and detailed explanation of your results.