Semen Analysis (SA)

What Is It?

Microscopic examination and testing of ejaculate (semen liquid) and sperm cells for reproductive quantity and quality.

Indications

Inability to conceive

When it should be done

When a couple or single male is trying to conceive and unable to do so, the semen analysis should be one of the very first things done to identify causes of infertility, for the following reasons:

relative low cost of test
relative lack of invasiveness and pain of procedure, as compared to female diagnostic procedures
relative very high value of results of test
male infertility accounts for approx half of all cases
problems with sperm are undetectable through any other means
problems with sperm cannot be made up for by enhancing female fertility
problems with sperm are highly correctable through a number of assisted reproductive techniques

How It Works:

Sample of semen is collected, observed, and rated along standard parameters through lab techniques.

Results

Sperm and semen will be examined for the following parameters

Morphology (shape): Normal = at least 30% good
Motility (movement): Normal = at least 50% motile
Volume: Normal = 2 - 5 cc
Count & concentration (as a percentage of overall semen): Normal = at least 20 million per ml
Coagulation, liquification factors
Presence of white blood cells (sign of infection): Normal = less than 1 million per ml

Results are generally available soon after examination, but will be disclosed to patient at a follow-up office appointment or phone call.