When Should You Take a Sperm Analysis Test?

Fertility issues among men and women are quite a common case faced today. Along with women, men also face infertility issues due to many reasons. Lack of sperm count, strong sperm, stress, and others are some of the reasons behind infertility. If a couple are trying to conceive for a long time but are unable to succeed, it is the right time to undergo the fertility test. In such cases, a doctor is likely to recommend a fertility test, and if the woman is healthy, the man would undergo a sperm analysis test. 

This article presents you with the detailed insight into the sperm analysis test.

What is Semen Analysis Test?

The sperm analysis test is conducted to check the volume and quality of sperm in a sample of semen. Sperm concentration, motility (movement), morphology (shape), volume, and pH levels are among the important factors it assesses. This test is frequently suggested by doctors when couples are having trouble getting pregnant or want to check the quality of the male reproductive system.

Semen analysis is essentially a laboratory test where a sample is seen under a microscope to obtain all the pertinent data regarding an individual's sperm health and fertility. Sperm motility (activity) and count are included in this data. This test also provides some information regarding the morphology (shape) of sperm. A person may not be particularly fertile if their semen assay results show a low sperm count or abnormal sperm shape and motility.

When should you undergo the Sperm Analysis Test?

There are different timelines or reasons to undergo the sperm analysis test. Some of these are-

Unable to Conceive since long

Infertility is one of the most frequent causes for undergoing a semen analysis test. Fertility testing is typically recommended after a couple has been unsuccessfully attempting to conceive for 12 months. Early assessment of sperm quality can save time and lessen stress because male factors account for over half of all occurrences of infertility.

Prior to Making Pregnancy Plans

A couple who intends to start a family may decide to proactively get a sperm analysis test even if there are no obvious reproductive issues. This is beneficial for couples who want to find and fix possible problems before attempting to conceive or who want assurance over their reproductive health.

Hormonal or Reproductive Problems in the Past

Regular sperm analysis testing may be beneficial for men with a history of diseases, including varicocele, testicular damage, or hormonal abnormalities. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all, but these disorders can have an impact on sperm quality and production.

Issues with Ejaculation or Sexual Activity

Men usually face premature ejaculation, which can be due to sperm issues. A sperm analysis test may be recommended for males who experience problems, including erectile dysfunction, painful ejaculation, poor semen volume, or premature ejaculation. These signs may occasionally point to underlying hormonal or reproductive issues that impact fertility.

Received Medical Care or Infections

Sperm production can be harmed by past infections such as prostate infections, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or mumps after puberty. Fertility can also be impacted by medical procedures, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or long-term pharmaceutical use. A test for sperm analysis aids in evaluating the effects of these illnesses and therapies.

Different factors contributing towards male fertility.

There are different reasons why male face fertility issues. Some of these are-

• Diabetes and other endocrine disorders

• High temperature (A febrile illness)

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• Age

• Obesity

• STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases)

• Epididymitis and prostatitis

Interpretation of Sperm Analysis Test

The doctor would interpret the test result in three different forms-

• Sperm Count: The amount of sperm in a semen sample is known as an individual's sperm count. A healthy semen sample may contain anything from 15 million to 200 million sperm per milliliter.

• Sperm Motility: To reach the egg and begin the fertilization process, the sperm cells must travel a considerable distance. The number that indicates how well sperm cells may travel inside a specific semen sample is called sperm motility. Sperm motility should be at least 40%.

• Sperm Morphology: The form of the sperm cells is another component of a semen analysis test. Perfectly formed sperm cells with an oval head and long tail are seen in a healthy semen sample.

Why is it important to undergo Early Sperm Analysis Test?

Fertility issues among men can be traumatizing, and so undergoing the test at an early stage is essential. It can help with-

• Identifying reversible causes of infertility

• Help in treatment options Guide

• Determine the need for assisted reproductive techniques

Conclusion

The sperm analysis test can help to understand male fertility and reproductive health. This test provides useful information with little inconvenience, whether you are preparing for pregnancy, having trouble conceiving, or just want peace of mind.