Fertility Clinic Sperm Analysis – Who Needs It

What is a sperm analysis?

A sperm analysis is a medical test that evaluates a semen sample to determine the number, quality, and movement of sperm. It is one of the first and most critical steps in diagnosing male fertility issues.

At Medfem Fertility Clinic, the sperm analysis process begins with an initial fertility consultation, where a specialist reviews your medical history and orders necessary tests.

This comprehensive consultation includes:

• A detailed medical history review
• A physical examination
• Female partner’s fertility evaluation (if applicable)
• Blood tests
• A thorough sperm analysis
• Additional tests if needed

The sperm analysis itself measures key sperm parameters such as:

• Sperm count: Number of sperm per milliliter of semen
• Sperm motility: The percentage of sperm that move effectively
• Sperm morphology: The shape and structure of sperm
• Volume: The total amount of semen in one ejaculation
• Liquefaction time: The time it takes for semen to change from a gel-like consistency to liquid
• pH levels: The acidity or alkalinity of the semen
• Presence of white blood cells: An indicator of infection
• Fructose levels: A measure of energy supply to sperm

These tests help assess whether sperm are healthy and capable of fertilising an egg. If abnormalities are found, further testing and treatment options can be explored.

Who needs a sperm analysis?

A sperm analysis is recommended for various individuals and situations, including:

1. Couples struggling with infertility
If a couple has been trying to conceive for 12 months or longer without success, a sperm analysis is a crucial test to determine if male factor infertility is a contributing issue. Male fertility problems account for more than one-third of infertility cases.

2. Men considering a vasectomy or vasectomy reversal
A sperm analysis is used to confirm the success of a vasectomy by ensuring no sperm are present in the semen. Similarly, after a vasectomy reversal, a sperm analysis is needed to determine if sperm production and motility have returned to normal.

3. Men with a History of Medical Conditions or Surgeries
Certain medical conditions and treatments, including testicular trauma, infections, hormone imbalances, varicoceles, and previous surgeries, can affect sperm production. A sperm analysis can help evaluate fertility in these cases, allowing for early detection and treatment of potential issues.

Why is a sperm analysis so important?

A sperm analysis provides crucial information that can help determine the best course of action for fertility treatment.

1. Identifying male factor infertility

Male fertility issues often go unnoticed because ejaculation and semen appearance may seem normal. However, sperm abnormalities can only be detected through laboratory analysis.

Common sperm-related issues include:

• Low sperm count (oligospermia)
• Poor sperm motility (asthenozoospermia)
• Abnormal sperm shape (teratozoospermia)
• Total absence of sperm (azoospermia)

Knowing the exact cause of male infertility allows fertility specialists to recommend targeted treatments, including lifestyle changes, medication, or assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection).

2. Enhancing the success of fertility treatments

Sperm analysis results help specialists tailor treatment plans for couples undergoing fertility procedures. By addressing sperm quality issues early, the chances of a successful pregnancy improve significantly.

3. Avoiding unnecessary treatments
Without a sperm analysis, couples may invest in fertility treatments that are not suited to their situation. A thorough evaluation ensures that treatment choices are based on accurate data, leading to better outcomes and cost-effective solutions.

Helpful tips for an accurate sperm analysis

To ensure the most reliable results, men undergoing a sperm analysis should follow these important guidelines:

1. Observe the correct abstinence period
Abstain from ejaculation for 2 to 4 days before providing a sample. This ensures the sperm count is at its highest while avoiding the negative effects of prolonged abstinence, which may result in less active sperm.

2. Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Refrain from drinking alcohol and smoking for a few days before the test, as these substances can negatively impact sperm quality and motility.

3. Provide a proper sample
• The semen sample should ideally be produced through masturbation into a sterile laboratory container.
• Avoid using condoms or the withdrawal method, as these can contaminate the sample.
• The sample should be delivered to the laboratory within 30 minutes if produced at home, and it must be kept at body temperature to maintain sperm viability.

4. Inform your specialist about recent health issues
Fever, infections, or stress within the past 3 months can affect sperm production. If you have been unwell recently, your specialist may recommend repeating the test at a later date.

Where to get a sperm analysis?

For an accurate and comprehensive sperm analysis, it is essential to visit a specialist fertility clinic with advanced laboratory facilities and experienced fertility specialists.
At Medfem Fertility Clinic, we offer:

✔ State-of-the-art laboratories for sperm testing
✔ Expert fertility specialists with years of experience in diagnosing and treating male infertility
✔ Comprehensive fertility consultations to develop personalised treatment plans

If you are considering a sperm analysis, we invite you to book a consultation with our team at Medfem Fertility Clinic.

We are a committed and understanding team of medical professionals, who have the experience, knowledge and desire to provide you with the best chance of a successful outcome at the end of your treatment.

Since the 1980’s, Medfem Fertility Clinic’s team has assisted couples struggling with infertility to experience the joy of parenthood, helping to bring more than 18,000 babies into the world.

If you would like to meet one of our fertility specialists, simply click here to book an initial consultation or contact us telephonically on +27 (11) 463 2244.

Our Fertility Specialists can also meet with you during a virtual consultation via Zoom or Skype. Click here to book a virtual consultation now.

We look forward to meeting you!