Pregnancy Planning with an Essential Focus on Male Infertility

Fertility testing is widely regarded as a standard procedure in pregnancy planning. Pregnancy planning is a complex process, and testing is crucial to diagnosing possible underlying conditions. 

Studies show that male infertility contributes to approximately 40-50% of all infertility cases. Your doctor may prescribe a sperm analysis test to identify the underlying reason and proceed with the treatment. The tests should help couples to make informed choices on when to seek other options, including Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). In addition, the doctor may recommend a semen culture test, which looks at the possibility of infections and other abnormalities in the sample.    

What is a Sperm Analysis Test? 

The semen analysis test involves a consensual collection of the man’s sperm to put it through a series of laboratory procedures. The test is designed to provide conclusive suggestions on the various aspects of sperm health. If male impotence (ED) is not a factor affecting sample collection, the sperm analysis test is considered sufficient for prima facie screening of possible medical conditions. 

Various factors are evaluated under the microscope, involving both qualitative and quantitative analysis of the sample. It is a common first step in pregnancy planning, especially in situations where female infertility might not be present. If male infertility is suspected, which is often the cause after all other options have been exhausted, the semen analysis test is considered a standard method. 

When is the Semen Analysis Test Recommended? 

The test is typically recommended on different grounds of evaluating male infertility, which include testicular injury, erectile dysfunction, surgery, and small/malformed testes. Also, hormonal imbalances, such as abnormal testosterone levels, call for analysis. Besides these infertility factors, the doctor usually suggests this test after a vasectomy. The Post Vasectomy Sperm Analysis (PVSA) conclusively reveals whether the seminal fluid is completely devoid of sperm (azoospermia).   

In addition, the test might be important from a psychological angle because fertility counseling must be considered a vital parameter for adequate pregnancy planning. Based on the test results, the counselor can provide valuable feedback on how to proceed with the treatment process. 

Why is the Semen Analysis Test Important? 

The semen analysis test can be crucial to reach definite conclusions about the male infertility problem, which can be accounted for by abnormal sperm shapes, below-par counts, and poor motility. Additionally, the semen culture test can be important to determine the overall sexual health of the male. 

The test can determine whether anatomical blockage is preventing the optimal sperm count. The test is also recommended for genital conditions such as varicocele or for severe infections such as mumps orchitis.   

How to Prepare for the Semen Analysis Test? 

The right preparation for the test is important. Due to the vulnerable nature of the medical process, it is considered a seminal part of a man’s self-identity, and adequate psychological counseling may be required. The test is conducted after a standard abstinence period of 2-7 days before the date of sample collection. Masturbation and sex are not allowed. 

The semen culture test may also require a similar anticipatory period.  Abstinence can be more difficult than you think, requiring you to stay off alcohol, smoking, and steroids. Also, caffeine, hot tubs, saunas, and even tight underwear are forbidden before the semen culture test. Certain medications are also explicitly forbidden, including antibiotics and chemotherapy medications.

What is Measured in the Semen Analysis Test? 

The test can reveal key insights into the male infertility issue. Overall, the test measures semen quality, sperm amount, sperm motility, sperm vitality, and sperm morphology as the key aspects. 

Key findings can be summarized as follows: 

• Semen Volume – The amount of semen per ejaculation is assessed as a preliminary quantitative factor. The normal range is considered equal to or more than 1.5 mL/per ejaculation. 

• Sperm Count (Concentration) – The number of sperm per count is determined, relative to the normal range of 15 million/mL. 

• Motility – Based on motility, the sperm count is assigned into three different categories: progressive, non-progressive (not moving forward), and immotile. 

• Morphology – The sperm shape is assessed relative to the strict Kruger criteria to determine the percentage of sperm having a normal structure (head, mid-piece, and flagellum). 

• pH and Liquefaction – The semen analysis test also determines the acidity/alkalinity level of the sample, relative to a normal pH of 7.2-8.0.    

• White Blood Cells Presence – The presence of WBCs in the sample is assessed to determine whether an infection or an inflammation is present. 

Conclusion 

Male infertility is one of the key factors that should be considered elaborately in pregnancy planning. Based on an evaluation of the symptoms, the doctor will either assign the analysis test or the semen culture test, or both. It is commonly regarded as a simple but powerful tool to continue with pregnancy planning. Early testing can be vital for timely diagnosis and treatment.