The First Step In Male-Factor Infertility Treatment

Infertility is a common obstacle impacting couples trying to conceive, particularly among men. Male subfertility or infertility can only be revealed with reproductive testing. A semen analysis is the primary method used to determine the underlying reasons for infertility. The results and numbers can be challenging to understand and dissect. With the right know-how, men and couples can accurately assess the markers and begin the next steps for treatment.

The basics of semen analysis

A semen analysis is a medical test that gauges the health and quality of a man’s sperm. The man will provide a discreet sample to a reproductive specialist, urologist, or fertility clinic. The sample is reviewed under a microscope, and various parameters are checked using other advanced tools. There are several markers that doctors searched for in the sample. Should the sample fail to meet these levels, this could indicate an underlying health or reproductive challenge. The analysis also guides the treatment a man or couple would require to improve sperm health or pregnancy rates.

The results are in

Once the analysis is complete, a report is generated for the patient. A typical report has the name of the markers on the left, the patient’s actual markers in the middle, and what’s considered healthy markers on the right. This simple format allows the doctor and patient to easily review the results. The primary objective of the semen analysis is to determine if a male has sperm present in the ejaculate sample. Men should understand that different labs have different markers and standards. While there is a general measure of sperm health, these figures may swing one way or the other, depending on the clinic. The report will also include the lab or clinic’s guidelines for healthy sperm.

Checking volume and sperm count

Volume is one of the first markers on a basic semen analysis test, which measures the total amount of seminal fluid ejaculated. Fertility clinics consider 2-5milliliters (ml) a normal volume. A low volume can seem concerning but is not a reliable measure of the quantity and quality of sperm. The concentration of sperm is all about the amount of sperm in the sample. Sperm count is reported in millions per ml, with a healthy sperm count of over 15million/ml of semen. Low sperm count will be labeled oligospermia, while almost no sperm present is azoospermia. The clinic will provide strict guidelines to get the best results.

Motility and Morphology

The medical team will also want to know how much sperm in the sample is moving, which is known as motility. Only moving sperm can swim up to the fallopian tubes to fertilize an egg. Sperm motility is measured as a percentage, often 40% or more. Poor sperm motility may be labeled as asthenozoospermia. The shape of the sperm, known as morphology, is another factor in sperm health. Abnormally shaped sperm may reach the egg but struggle to successfully perform fertilization. Morphology is also measured in percentage, with a standard rate as low as 4% in some clinics. The term teratozoospermia may be used in the report, which is an indication of poor morphology.

Should you be worried or hopeful?

Patients should read the analysis with a doctor or fertility specialist. Interpreting the results alone can lead men or couples to make incorrect conclusions or decisions. There are different factors that impact the results. For instance, volume can be lower if some of the sample is lost during collection, a common occurrence. Having sexual intercourse or ejaculating before providing the sample can skew sperm count and motility results. A past viral illness, chronic condition like diabetes, or prescription medication can impact sperm count. Sometimes, the doctor will recommend another test under better conditions. If the readings are similar, the doctor can then delve into the many causes and find appropriate solutions.

Your next steps

The semen analysis helps with finding the best treatment possible. For instance, the medical team can look at physical issues like varicocele, damage to the vas deferens, or retrograde ejaculation. Surgery may be needed in some cases to improve sperm and semen health. Treating a chronic condition may improve sperm health over time. Some men may need fertility treatments. Hormone medication, for instance, can improve sperm count and quality. Sometimes, these treatments are combined with assisted reproductive technology (ART) to improve the chances of pregnancy. Intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are common examples. The hopeful couple and fertility team can discuss the next steps in the treatment process.

Level up your knowledge

A semen analysis is an essential test in the quest to find the underlying cause of infertility. With the many environmental dangers, illnesses, and challenges today, sperm health is declining rapidly. Men can take action with the correct information. The analysis can be challenging to read, but the sperm volume, quantity, motility, and morphology are the primary metrics. Review these closely, comparing each marker with the expected standard. From there, discuss the next steps for improved fertility with the doctor.