Semen Analysis (SA), Page 2

Typical Procedure Protocol

Pre-procedure

  • male is asked to abstain from ejacultion for 48 to 72 hours prior to testing
  • standing appointment scheduled for male
  • sample obtained via masturbation using sterile receptacle, at either patient's home or clinic, depending on length of travel time from home to lab
  • other collection methods are available in cases of ejaculation dysfunction
  • sample turned in to lab for analysis
  • some patients may also be asked to do a urinalysis immediately following ejaculation, to check for retrograde ejaculation

During procedure

In addition to the above-stated parameters, semen and sperm may be examined in the following manners:

  • pyospermia analysis, for distinguishing of white blood cells
  • screen for infectious agents
  • semen fructose levels
  • Immunobead Test or Antisperm Antibody Profile
  • sperm penetration assay

Post-procedure

In cases of below-normal parameters found through SA, it is recommended that at least one additional analysis be run (on a different sample, collected on a different day), using the same lab. This is particularly important when results are found to be borderline normal. The reason for this is that sperm quality is easily affected by a number of variables, such as overall health, stress, heat, etc.

What may be found through a semen analysis

  • bacterial infection
  • antisperm antibodies
  • congenital absence of vas deferens
  • other causes of sperm blockage or dysfunctional sperm production
  • chlamydia or other infection
  • abnormal semen resulting from male sperm antibodies
  • ejaculation disorders

Average Costs

  • US $75. to $400., depending on which specific tests are run, where procedure is performed, and the going rate for geographical area