Is Your Sperm Healthy?
To successfully conceive a pregnancy, healthy sperm is required. Men continuously produce new sperm, so many assume that fertility problems are often a female concern. However, low sperm count, poor movement, and abnormally shaped sperm can all present barriers to conception. A semen analysis (SA) can deliver a more detailed assessment of sperm issues and current fertility potential. Here is what male fertility testing can reveal.
The semen analysis
To provide a snapshot of current fertility potential, a semen analysis assesses sperm count, sperm motility, sperm morphology, pH, and semen volume. Men undergoing an SA are advised to abstain for 2-5 days to ensure accuracy. On the day of the test, a sterile container is used to collect a semen sample in the lab. In some cases, at-home testing is allowed if the specimen can be returned promptly. Test results are generally available within a few days and should be reviewed with the ordering physician.
Closer look at sperm count
A standard sperm count is anywhere from 15 million sperm to more than 200 million sperm. Having a lower sperm count makes conception more difficult to achieve. Varicoceles, hormone imbalances, past or current infections, weight, hot tub use, genetic disorders, and blockages can all cause a low count. In many cases, this number can be improved with lifestyle changes and treatment. Sperm count is an important part of an SA, but not the only measurement.
How fast can you swim?
Sperm motility refers to how well sperm can swim and move in a forward direction. Motility is important because sperm must travel through the reproductive tract to reach the egg. A normal motility result is anything over 40% for active movement, with at least 32% showing active forward movement. Poor motility is caused by many of the same things as low count, including varicoceles, infections, and genetic factors. Previous injury or trauma to the testicles and chronic stress are other possible causes. Improving nutrition, avoiding heat, limiting alcohol, and working out consistently are lifestyle changes often recommended to help improve motility.
Abnormal shape
Sperm morphology refers to the size and structure of the sperm. While this component may not seem as important as sperm speed and total count, good morphology is essential. To successfully fertilize the egg, a sperm must have a normally shaped head, standard midpiece, and a straight tail. Sperm with double heads, thin midsections, and tails that are bent or coiled are unlikely to result in a pregnancy. A sperm sample is considered normal if 4% or more of the sperm have a normal shape and size.
Volume and acidity
Other factors typically included in an SA are semen volume and pH value. The pH test measures how acidic or alkaline a semen sample is. A range of 7.2-8.0 pH is considered normal. Normal semen volume should be in the range of 1.5-5.0 mL for healthy men. Anything below 1.5 mL is considered abnormal and should be investigated further.
Informed on next steps
When male-factor infertility is a concern, a semen analysis can provide helpful information. This simple test measures sperm count, motility, morphology, pH, and volume. Based on the analysis results, an individualized fertility plan can be developed. While poor SA results can be disheartening, this information is fundamental to moving forward with effective treatment.
