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Semen Analysis at Center

Also known as Semen analysis

You need to provide

Semen / Sperm Sample

This test is for

Male

Earliest reports in

48 hours

Test Preparation

Submit the semen sample in the provided sterile screw-capped container. Note the exact time of collection on the specimen container and test request form. Patients should refrain from ejaculation for 2-7 days (ideally 3 days) before collection. Specimen must be obtained by masturbation only. Immediately before collection, the patient should urinate, wash the genital area with warm water, and dry the part. Collect the entire ejaculate and hand it over to the lab immediately after collection. Condoms are not acceptable.

Understanding Semen Analysis at Center

What is Semen Analysis at Center?

The Semen Analysis at Center test is a process of examining the semen for the physical appearance as well as microscopy for the sperm. This test measures the number of sperm present and looks for any abnormalities in the shape (morphology) and movement (motility) of the sperm.

Semen is a whitish-gray fluid made by the male reproductive organs, in particular the testicles, and released during ejaculation. It consists of sperm cells that are needed to fertilize an egg and achieve pregnancy. Semen also contains nutrients and protective substances that sustain the sperm and help them traverse the female reproductive system.

The semen analysis test is a laboratory test tailored to assess the quality and quantity of sperm in a sample of semen. It provides quantitative and qualitative analysis of sperm count, motility and morphology, along with volume and pH. These analyses can help diagnose male fertility and provide information about problems such as low sperm count (with pathological nomenclature asthenozoospermia), whether there was low motility (asthenozoospermia) or an issue with the sperm shape (teratozoospermia), which may affect a man's ability to conceive.

The Semen Analysis at Center test is used to be performed if someone has been trying to conceive with a partner for more than 1 year, without successful conception. It can also be done as part of infertility assessments or to verify the success rate of vasectomy. This test can also assess if someone has a male fertility problem, as well as genetic issues impacting the sperm health. Additionally, it is useful in diagnosing conditions like infections or hormonal imbalances that can impair sperm production and overall fertility.

To conduct the semen analysis, a man provides a semen sample in a sterile container. It’s recommended to abstain from sexual activity or masturbation for 2 to 7 days before the test, but not for more than two weeks, as longer abstinence can result in less active sperm. Before the sample collection, the patient should urinate, wash the genital area with warm water, and dry the area. Additionally, it’s advised to limit alcohol intake before the test. It is also important to inform the doctor about any medications or herbal supplements being taken, as they can affect the results of the semen analysis.

Test result ranges may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation. Therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results. Always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.

Note: This test is not offered for Home Collection. Please visit our partnered labs to get tested.

What is Semen Analysis at Center used for?

The Semen Analysis at Center test is done:

To assess male fertility by evaluating sperm count, motility, and morphology.
To investigate male infertility in couples struggling to conceive.
To identify underlying causes of infertility, such as low sperm count or motility.
To monitor the effectiveness of fertility treatments (e.g., IVF).
To evaluate sperm quality before undergoing assisted reproductive techniques.

What does Semen Analysis at Center measure?

The Semen Analysis at Center test measures several aspects of sperm health, including sperm count (concentration of sperm in the semen), motility (the ability of sperm to swim and move towards an egg), morphology (size and shape of sperm), semen volume (total amount of semen produced during ejaculation), and semen pH (acidity or alkalinity of the semen) and thickness of semen. By analyzing these parameters, the semen analysis provides a comprehensive evaluation of male fertility, guiding both diagnosis and treatment options for couples experiencing infertility.

Interpreting Semen Analysis at Center results

Interpretations

Volume - Decreased volume of semen would indicate fewer sperms, which decreases the opportunities for successful fertilization.
Sperm count - Low sperm counts are associated with impaired fertility. They may be due to a problem in the production of sperms or a problem in the transport. The latter can be identified by radiological tests. Following vasectomy, the goal is to have no sperms detected in the semen sample
Problems in the motility and morphology of sperms may impair the fertility
Transient decrease in sperm counts can also occur in infections and a repeat sperm count after a course of antibiotics in recommended

Frequently Asked Questions about Semen Analysis at Center

Q. What is the Semen Analysis at Center test?

The Semen Analysis at Center test is a laboratory procedure used to evaluate the quantity, quality, and motility of sperm in a semen sample. It helps assess male fertility and can identify potential issues such as low sperm count, low motility, abnormal sperm shape, or other fertility-related problems.

Q. Why is the semen analysis test done?

This test is typically done if a couple has been trying to conceive for over a year without success, as part of routine fertility testing, to verify the success of a vasectomy, or to diagnose potential male fertility problems or conditions like infections or hormonal imbalances.

Q. How should I prepare for the Semen Analysis at Center test?

It’s recommended to avoid sexual activity or masturbation for 2 to 5 days before the test. Before the sample collection, you should urinate, wash the genital area with warm water, and dry the part. Additionally, you should also limit alcohol intake and inform your doctor about any medications or herbal supplements you're taking, as these can affect the results of the test.

Q. What do the results of the semen analysis test mean?

Abnormal semen analysis results may indicate issues with your ability to help someone get pregnant. If the semen analysis shows a low sperm count, poor motility or abnormal morphology, the chance of fertilization may decrease. Semen analysis showing low sperm volume or pH imbalance can also affect sperm viability.

Q. Is the semen analysis test painful?

No, the semen analysis test is not painful. The process involves providing a semen sample through masturbation, which is a quick and straightforward procedure.

Q. Are there any risks associated with the Semen Analysis at Center test?

There are no significant risks associated with the test itself. However, you may experience temporary discomfort when providing a semen sample. If you have any concerns or underlying conditions, it’s best to discuss them with your doctor before the test.

Q. What can I do to improve my semen quality?

Adopting healthy lifestyle changes can often improve semen quality. This includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs, and minimizing stress.

Q. What does it mean if my sperm count is low?

A low sperm count, also known as oligospermia, can reduce your chances of conceiving a child with your partner. It may require further investigations and fertility treatments.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.

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