Semen Analysis

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. Dr. Houman 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, Dr. Houman 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.

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 must ensure it stays at room temperature and avoid using 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.

FAQ: Semen Analysis

Why is Semen Analysis Important?
Semen analysis is crucial for diagnosing male infertility. It provides detailed information about sperm health, helping to identify issues such as low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and abnormal sperm morphology, which can affect fertility.

What Does a Semen Analysis Measure?
A semen analysis measures several key parameters:

• Sperm Count: Number of sperm per milliliter of semen.
• Motility: Percentage and quality of moving sperm.
• Morphology: Shape and structure of sperm.
• Volume: Total amount of semen produced.
• Liquefaction Time: Time for semen to liquefy post-ejaculation.
• pH Level: Acidity or alkalinity of semen.
• White Blood Cells: Presence indicating possible infection or inflammation.

How is a Semen Analysis Performed?
The semen sample is typically collected through masturbation into a sterile container. It should be kept at body temperature and delivered to the lab within one hour. In the lab, technicians analyze the sample under a microscope to assess the various parameters.

How Should I Prepare for a Semen Analysis?
To ensure accurate results:

• Abstain from Ejaculation: Avoid ejaculation for 2 to 5 days before the test.
• Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: Refrain from consuming alcohol and caffeine for a few days prior.
• Inform Your Doctor: Notify your doctor about any medications or supplements you take.

What Do the Results Mean?
Results are compared to standard reference ranges. Abnormalities in any parameter can indicate potential fertility issues. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in the context of your overall reproductive health and recommend further testing or treatment if necessary.

What if My Semen Analysis Results are Abnormal?
If abnormalities are found, your doctor may recommend additional tests or treatments. These could include lifestyle changes, medications, or assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Can a Semen Analysis Diagnose the Cause of Infertility?
While a semen analysis provides detailed information about sperm health, it may not identify the exact cause of infertility. It is often one part of a comprehensive fertility evaluation that may include hormonal testing, genetic screening, and other diagnostic procedures.

Schedule an Appointment

Semen analysis can be a helpful tool in determining your options for sexual and reproductive health. To meet with Dr. Houman in Los Angeles and learn more, contact our office by calling (310) 854-7822  or filling out our online form.

An expert in his field

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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