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The
male infertility evaluation semen analysis is one of
the most important tests conducted in the workup of
the infertile couple. Studies show that approximately
47% of couples with infertility have a male factor component.
Given
the importance of the semen analyses, it is best to
have the test performed by a reproductive medicine laboratory.
There are many quantitative and qualitative sperm characteristics
that must be evaluated and these laboratories have the
most experienced personnel. This test must be interpreted
properly.
In
addition to the standard semen analysis, other tests
of sperm function might include tests for antisperm
antibodies, cultures to detect microorganisms, and others.
In addition to the semen analyses, a male hormonal evaluation
is sometimes performed.
Sometimes
more than one semen analyses is necessary as sperm quality
and quantity can vary for numerous reasons. The sample
is produced by masturbation at the reproductive medicine
laboratory.
Reproductive
labs use the "Kruger strict criteria" which
assesses the following factors:
-
Volume
(amount of fluid which makes up the semen, usually
expressed in milliliters).
-
Sperm
count (number of sperm in a standard given volume).
-
Motility
(percent of sperm that are moving when the semen
is examined under the microscope).
-
Progression
(forward movement of sperm cells).
-
Viability
(percent of sperm that are shown to be alive by
use of a special staining technique).
-
Sperm
morphology (shape) and additional semen contents,
such as white blood cells (which can indicate the
presence of infection).
Other
conditions, such as a varicocele, can obstruct the flow
of semen and the physician will screen for multiple
factors.
Intracytoplasmic
sperm injection (ICSI) is the treatment of choice
for moderate to severe male factor infertility and gives
hope to couples who previously had no chance of creating
a genetically related child. A single sperm can usually
be withdrawn from the male reproductive tract even if
it is absent in the ejaculate. Please review our specialists
articles for more information.
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