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There are a few different reasons that it can be helpful to know your sperm count and whether there are any problems. Your board-certified urologist can perform a semen analysis and use your results as a way to guide your reproductive and sexual health options.
What is a Semen Analysis?
A semen analysis is a test that allows your urologist to check your sperm count and characteristics. Your urologist can view your sperm cells using a microscope to determine information like:
- The number or concentration of sperm
- How they move
- Their shape and appearance
From your semen sample, your urologist can also determine things like the volume of semen, its pH level, liquefaction time, or levels of fructose. Abnormalities with these things can also be indicators of infertility.
Is a Semen Analysis Right for Me?
A semen analysis is an effective way to check for problems with your ability to have children. It’s often one of the first steps in treatment when you and your partner are unsuccessful at getting pregnant. A semen analysis can also be beneficial for men who have had a vasectomy and want to be vigilant about reattachment of the vas deferens (which can cause semen to be present in their ejaculate). It’s a good idea to have a semen analysis regularly to prevent unwanted pregnancy in these cases.
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What Can I Expect From a Semen Analysis?
To begin, make sure to discuss any medications or drugs you’re taking with your urologist. Things like hormone supplements, steroids, and illicit drugs can impact your results. It’s important to take steps to prepare for a semen analysis, since some factors can impact the quality of your sample. This includes avoiding alcohol. In some cases, you may need to avoid any sexual activity for a few days ahead of collecting your sample since this ensures your sperm count is as high as possible.
There are a couple different ways you can provide a semen sample – this can be done in-office in a private room, after which you can return home. You can also collect a sample at home and bring it into the office within 1 hour. If you choose this route, you’ll need to ensure it stays at room temperature and avoid using any lubricants or products that could contaminate the sample.
Depending on your treatment needs, you may need to produce another sample a few weeks later so your urologist can confirm any results from your first sample. You may need to repeat this more than once. Your urologist will give you the best idea of what to expect.
Semen Analysis Results
Once your urologist has your sample, it will be assessed in our lab under a microscope. Generally, this process can be completed within one day. You’ll be given a full report of your sample’s characteristics and your urologist will follow up if there are any abnormalities or concerns.
Schedule an Appointment
Semen analysis can be a helpful tool in determining your options for sexual and reproductive health. To meet with Dr. Houman and learn more, contact our office by calling (310) 854-7822 or filling out our online form.
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Meet Dr. Houman
Dr. Justin Houman is a board-certified, fellowship-trained Urologist and Men’s Health specialist whose mission is to enhance men’s quality of life by improving their sexual and reproductive health. Dr. Houman’s focus is on making a difference in people’s lives through state-of-the-art, compassionate, and personally tailored care.
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There’s no better time than the present to start living a better life. To get started, request a consultation using our online form or contact us by calling (310) 854-9898