Tuesday, July 19, 2022

Semen Analysis: What is it, What is it for & How it is Done

The thick fluid that flows from a man's reproductive organ during intercourse is known as semen. It transfers sperm from a man's body into an egg, fertilizing it and forming an embryo.

A test of a man's sperm and semen is known as sperm analysis. The findings of a sperm count, often known as a male fertility test, reveal how many sperm are released, as well as their morphology and movement.  

Why Have a Semen Analysis?

If you and your spouse are having problems conceiving, a semen analysis is likely to be one of the first tests your doctor will order.

While both men and women can have fertility problems, male fertility disorders can account for up to half of all infertility cases. Low sperm production is also a common reason for male infertility.

A semen study may also be required to ensure that a vasectomy (a procedure to prevent pregnancy) was successful. It's commonly done 8 to 16 weeks after surgery to evaluate if any viable sperm are still being produced.

Who needs a semen analysis?

The following are some of the reasons why you might need a sperm analysis:

Male infertility: A semen abnormality could be the reason for a couple's inability to conceive. It's sometimes related to a problem with a man's sperm. A semen analysis determines the chances of a male producing a pregnancy.

Vasectomy follow-up: A semen analysis is used to determine whether a vasectomy was successful. This treatment prevents sperm from being deposited in the sperm tubes. If there are no sperm in the sperm, the vasectomy was successful, and a man cannot become pregnant with a woman.

How does a semen analysis work?

A man produced a sample of sperm in a way that yields a clean sample. Because sperm counts fluctuate from day to day, you may need to supply multiple samples separated by a few weeks.

To handle and test the sperm, healthcare providers employ research-based approaches. You'll get accurate findings if you go to a lab that specializes in semen analysis.

This applies to labs that:

Are affiliated with a fertility clinic.

Perform a large number of sperm analyses.

What should I do to prepare for a sperm analysis if it's for fertility testing?

For two to seven days, you must refrain from intercourse and self-pleasure. This guarantees that sperm levels are at their greatest, allowing for a complete study.

Any medications or herbal supplements you're taking should also be disclosed to your doctor. The following drugs may have an impact on your results:

Testosterone: Supplements that increase testosterone can send the wrong message to your body, causing it to cease generating natural testosterone and sperm. It can result in a low sperm count or a complete loss of sperm.

Anabolic steroids: These medications are used to enhance muscle; however, they also impact sperm production.

Marijuana: Marijuana's THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) can reduce sex drive and prevent your body from producing enough testosterone and sperm.

Opiates: These drugs can reduce sperm count and testosterone production.

This is a guest blog entry.

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