What is a Sperm Count Test?
A semen analysis, commonly known as a sperm count test, determines the quantity and quality of semen and sperm. Semen is the thick, white fluid that emerges as ejaculation during intercourse, and it contains sperm, which are the cells produced in the male reproductive system that carry half of the genetic material required to create a baby.
When Should You Get Tested
You may require a semen analysis if:
- You and your partner have been trying to conceive for at least a year without success.
- You recently underwent a vasectomy and need to ensure that there is no sperm in your semen sample.
What Does the Sperm Test Measure?
A semen analysis looks for:
Number of sperm (volume)
Sperm motility (movement speed)
Sperm structure and shape
The amount, shape, and motility of sperm are critical when testing for male infertility. To ensure an accurate analysis, your doctor may consider testing up to three sperm samples on separate occasions.
Process:
You will be required to supply a semen sample. To obtain exact findings, the semen must be checked soon before the sperm begin to die. For getting the correct results:
- Before obtaining your sample, urinate (pee) and thoroughly clean your hands and penis. This keeps microorganisms from your skin out of the sample.
- Do not touch the inside of the container.
- Do not use lubricants or saliva. They could damage your sperm.
- Make sure to gather all the semen you generate. If you miss any of it, notify your provider.
- Do not attempt to gather any semen that did not make it into the container. This may contaminate the sample.
Also Read: What is Normal Sperm Count?
Understanding Normal vs Abnormal Results
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has determined the following healthy or typical semen analytical findings. Because findings can vary from person to person, they are expressed as a range.
WHO Reference Range
- The total sperm count in the ejaculate should range from 39 to 928 million per volume.
- The ejaculate volume should be 1.5–7.6 mL.
- Sperm concentration should range from 15–259 million per mL.
- Total sperm motility (progressive and non-progressive) should range between 4-81%.
- Progressive motility should range between 32%–75%.
- Sperm morphology should range from 4%–48%
Also Read: How Many Days Does Sperm Live in the Female Body?
What Factors Affect Your Results
Some factors that can negatively impact the test include:
- Semen comes into contact with spermicide.
- Taking the test while sick or agitated
- Lab operator error
- Sample contamination
- Alcohol, caffeine, and certain herbs
- Prescription drugs like cimetidine
- Recreational drugs
- Tobacco
Also Read: What Causes Low Sperm Count and How Is It Treated?
What Happens After Abnormal Results
If your semen analysis findings are not fully normal, it does not imply that you are forever infertile. However, it does indicate that your sperm may be one of the reasons you and your spouse are having difficulty conceiving.
Your doctor may prescribe additional tests, like ultrasounds and blood tests, to assist in determining the cause of the problem and treating it. The problems of fertility can be caused by:
- Certain behaviours, such as smoking.
- A physical issue in your testicles, such as an enlarged vein (varicocele).
- Certain genetic illnesses or medical conditions, such as hormone imbalances, diabetes, and cystic fibrosis.
Infertility treatments vary depending on the underlying cause. Your doctor will recommend a fertility specialist to you in case you require treatments like IVF for getting your partner pregnant.
Improving Your Sperm Health
While many causes of low sperm count necessitate medical intervention, changes in lifestyle can also contribute. The following may help increase your sperm count:
- Losing weight if you're overweight: Being obese or overweight can result in poor sperm count. Strive to have a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise.
- Improving your diet or using vitamin supplements: Ask your doctor for a blood test to check for vitamin deficiencies. They may suggest incorporating new items into your diet or using pills to help restore vitamin and mineral levels.
- Avoiding substance abuse: This includes excessive alcohol use, illegal drug usage, and tobacco use.
- Wearing comfortable pants: Wearing loose, cotton boxers could help.
Also Read: Sperm Morphology: What does it mean? It Affect Fertility?
