Sperm analysis is a fairly common diagnostic technique. Most often it is used to check the reproductive functions of the male body, but its results can also indicate a number of diseases of the genitourinary system. The procedure is quite simple and it is carried out in many modern clinics.
Sperm analysis: when is it needed?
Most often, the reason for this analysis lies in the inability of partners to have a baby. It is worth noting that doctors begin to talk about infertility only if, after a year of regular sexual intercourse (naturally, without the use of contraceptives), pregnancy still does not occur.
It is worth noting that with suspicions of infertility, both partners should undergo examination and analysis - only in this way you can find out the exact cause, make a diagnosis and prescribe treatment. Sperm analysis is one of the simplest and most effective ways to determine the ability of the male body to reproduce in the light of a child.
But infertility is not the only reason for such a study. Sperm analysis can also be prescribed if there are suspicions of any hormonal imbalance. In addition, a spermogram allows you to detect the presence of health problems, such as diseases of the prostate and testicles, a violation in the structure of the urethra and vas deferens.
Spermogram preparation
It is worth noting that the analysis of seminal fluid requires some preparation from a man:
- Within four days before the analysis, you need to stop any sexual intercourse, including masturbation.
- A few days before the study, it is necessary to abandon the use of alcoholic beverages - even beer is prohibited.
- If you are taking any medications, you should inform your doctor about this - you may need to cancel the treatment for several days or transfer the spermogram.
- For a few days before taking samples, you should refuse to visit baths and saunas. It is not recommended to take hot baths. The best choice in such cases would be a shower.
It is worth noting that a violation of any of these rules can directly affect the quality of sperm - thus, the test results, as well as the diagnosis, will be incorrect.
Sperm analysis: how does it go?
As a rule, the delivery of seminal fluid is carried out in specialized clinics. Sperm in most cases is obtained after masturbation. The process is quick and painless. In addition, ejaculate can be obtained after interrupted intercourse, but this method is used extremely rarely.
It is worth noting that when passing tests, it is best to refrain from using condoms, since contact with latex can change the state of sperm.
Some men prefer to get samples at home. A number of clinics allow this method, although it is not considered optimal, because sperm must be immediately delivered to the laboratory.
Spermogram analysis: how to decrypt data?
The interpretation of the results is best provided to the attending physician. But some data can be considered independently. The results first mention the amount of sperm - in normal condition, at least 3-5 ml should be released.
The sperm count is very important - normally, per 1 ml of seminal fluid should account for 60 to 120 million male germ cells. A decrease in sperm count can be a sign of a wide variety of diseases.
Spermogram also allows you to determine the motility of sperm, which is very important for those couples who are trying to get pregnant. Normally, the number of active, motile cells should be at least 60 - 70%.
Of course, laboratory tests also consider other characteristics - this is the color of the sperm, and the presence of any foreign impurities (for example, blood) in it, as well as the speed of the sperm, the time of dilution of the sample, etc. Based on the data received, the doctor will be able to diagnose and prescribe a course of treatment. Although it is worth noting that semen analysis is only part of the diagnosis, it is therefore likely that additional studies will be needed.