Semen ANALYSIS - What is it ?

Semen analysis is always done when assessing male fertility. The man has to provide a fresh sample of semen and then take it or send it to the laboratory where it is analysed. The semen sample is usually be tested by a specialist laboratory and be evaluated for;

Semen volume, consistency and quality.

Sperm count, percentage of active sperm (often called Motility), sperm shape (usually called Morphology) and the presence of elements other than sperm eg such as blood cells or white cells which can provide evidence of damage and/or evidence of infection.


Who needs semen analysis ?

Any couple concerned about their fertility should ensure that the man is tested. This particularly important for the following;

Men with a history of reproductive tract infections or STDs

Men concerned about exposure to environmental pollutants

Men exposed to workplace hazards

Male athletes exposed to conditions which might lower sperm counts



Why bother with semen analysis ?

The male partner contributes to almost half of all Infertility problems that couples face yet often refuses to think he may be the possible cause of the couples failure to conceive.

10-20% of all men have sperm counts below the WHO cut-off level.

1-2% of all males are completely infertile and produce no sperm at all.

A simple semen test can prevent a lot of unnecessary time, investigation of the female partner, and the associated costs.



How can I get my semen tested?

You can arrange a test through your doctor. This should certainly be done if you come up negative with our home screening test. The doctors laboratory will also be able to assess other important aspects of the sperm quality such as Sperm motility etc