Semen Analysis

Retrograde semen analysis helps in measuring the amount and quality of a man’s semen and sperm. This test is also used to confirm sterility after a vasectomy. In this test sperm morphology, sperm count and concentration, sperm motility, semen pH, etc are analyzed. This test helps to diagnose male infertility.

Test parameters:

• Semen volume
• Sperm count
• Sperm Motility
• Sperm concentration
• Semen pH

What is Semen?

Semen is the male reproductive fluid that contains spermatozoa. It is also known as seminal fluid. It can fertilize the female ova.

What is infertility?

Infertility is a condition in which an individual is unable to get pregnant. It is diagnosed after a couple has tried to get pregnant for 12 months without success. Infertility may also be diagnosed when a woman succeeded to get pregnant but has been unable to carry a fetus to term (miscarriage). Hormones produced by glands play an important role in fertilization including the hypothalamus, thyroid gland, and pituitary gland and also woman’s ovaries and a man’s testicles. Age is an important factor which plays a role in fertility. Peak fertility in a woman occurs at her early 20’s and declines substantially by age 35 and even more so after age 40. By the time a woman reaches menopause, few eggs may be available or functional. As a man ages, the number of sperm decreases, along with sperm motility, thus reducing the chances of pregnancy. Other age-related problems are erectile or ejaculation problems and low testosterone and prostate. Apart from age, the other factors that may affect fertility in both men and women are diabetes, obese or being underweight, exposure to chemicals or toxins, excessive exercise, unhealthy lifestyle or habits like smoking, alcohol, or drugs, diabetes, etc.

Why this test is performed?

This test may be recommended to you to rule out the causes of infertility. This test also helps in selecting the suitable treatment based on the test results. Precautions: Several factors like alcohol, tobacco, caffeine, some prescription drugs, and some herbal medicines, etc may affect the sperm count. Hence avoid these factors before undergoing this test.

The normal test results may vary depending on age, health history, medical condition, etc. If your semen volume, sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm concentration are less than the reference range it may cause infertility.

The test results can be interpreted correctly by your doctor. Hence consult your doctor soon after receiving your lab test reports for further diagnosis or medical intervention.