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Sperm Test & Semen Analysis
Sperm Test
If the results of your initial fertility tests do not diagnose the problem, your healthcare provider may suggest further testing.
A basic physical is usually completed on the initial visit. A semen analysis is always done and often blood will be drawn to assess hormone levels such as FSH, LH and testosterone.
Depending on the results of these tests, the healthcare provider may require more tests such as a sperm function test, testicular biopsy or vasography. This section gives you detailed explanations of these male-specific tests. Most healthcare providers take the time to explain these procedures to their patients. However, it is always helpful to learn as much as you can on your own so you can be better prepared when you meet with your healthcare provider.
Semen Analysis
A semen analysis checks for the following:
• Motility: The sperm’s swimming ability.
• Morphology: The shape of the sperm.
• Count: The number of individual sperm.
• Vitality: The capacity of the sperm to live and endure.
Why it is done?
Analysing sperm can often explain a couple’s inability to conceive, and also determine what treatment options are reasonable. A severely low sperm count or low motility may indicate the need for an advanced approach, whereas a normal semen analysis might suggest a more conservative approach.
How it is done?
A semen sample is usually collected by masturbation and the ejaculation of the seminal fluid into a sterile specimen container. No lubricants should be used. There are also specially designed condoms which allow for collection of a semen sample during intercourse.
To ensure the most accurate results, two to four days of abstinence are recommended before obtaining a semen sample for analysis. Longer periods of abstinence may increase the count, but the percentage of sperm that are actively motile may decrease.
On the other hand, shorter periods of abstinence may result in some decrease in the number of sperm present.
Once the sperm sample has been collected it should be delivered to the lab within one hour and kept close to body temperature but not above.
Immunobead Test
Antibodies are often thought of usually as mechanisms that help prevent infection. Antisperm antibodies can actually work against the body by interfering with the reproductive process. In women, antibodies inhibit sperm movement as they make their way through the cervical mucous to reach an egg. In men, antibodies that attach to the sperm’s tail may also impede the sperm’s ability to travel through the cervical mucous.
Antibodies develop due to infections, trauma or other factors. To check for antisperm antibodies, healthcare providers run an immunobead test (IBT).
Why it is done?
An IBT can detect different kinds of antisperm antibodies in several biological samples, including blood, cervical mucous and on sperm cells. The test can indicate the class and the severity of the antibodies and what part of the sperm is affected. In a blood sample, an IBT test can reveal whether the antibodies originate from contact with blood or around the reproductive organs.
How it is done?
To detect antibodies, blood is drawn from the woman, incubated with a sperm sample and examined under a microscope in the laboratory. Sperm from a semen specimen can also be directly tested for antibodies.
If antisperm antibodies are present, they can be treated in several ways. The first way is to correct the defect if it is known. Other options include intrauterine inseminations with washed sperm and/or IVF.
Testicular Biopsy
Testicles produce sperm (vital to conception) and male hormones. Any problems in the production of sperm can impact male fertility. A Testicular Biopsy extracts sperm to be analysed.
Why it is done?
Analysing semen can often explain a couple’s inability to conceive, and also determine what treatment options are reasonable. A severely low sperm count or low motility may indicate the need for an advanced approach, whereas a normal semen analysis might suggest a more conservative approach.
How it is done?
A semen sample is usually collected by masturbation and the ejaculation of the seminal fluid into a sterile specimen container. No lubricants should be used. There are also specially designed condoms which allow for collection of a semen sample during intercourse.
To ensure the most accurate results, two to four days of abstinence are recommended before obtaining a semen sample for analysis. Longer periods of abstinence may increase the count, but the percentage of sperm that are actively motile may decrease. On the other hand, shorter periods of abstinence may result in some decrease in the number of sperm present.
Once the sample has been collected it should be delivered to the lab within one hour and kept close to body temperature but not above.
CONFIDENTIALITY
Please be assured that all services are provided in a completely discreet and confidential environment.
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