The results of a semen analysis represent many parameters of the males ejaculate. The sperm count, the sperm¡¦s motility (movement), the sperm¡¦s morphology (appearance), the evidence of any infection, and the volume of the ejaculate are some of the parameters checked. As this test represents just what was present on the day of the test, they do not necessarily give the whole picture of what sperm production is like. A number of semen analyses can provide a general picture of fertility status but one analysis is just merely a "snapshot" of what the overall parameters are like. In fact, semen parameters change with time and can be influenced by many factors.

Although there is natural fluctuation in the parameters, extremely abnormal results or large fluctuations warrant further investigation. Consider some of the factors which influence semen analysis results:

The number of days of abstinence before the analysis (2-3 days is ideal)
If any of the ejaculate was missed during the collection
If the collection process was very uncomfortable
Collection by any method other than masturbation without lubrication
Overall health status (any fever or illness within the last three months?)
Any ongoing bacterial or viral genital infections
Exposure to heat (working outdoors, spending time in hot tubs or saunas)
Exposure to toxic chemicals
Smoking, drinking, or any illicit drug habits
Taking some prescription drugs
Any genetic or hormonal abnormalities
Past with both surgery or trauma incidents
Psychological stress

By providing important information about the sperm production and the general quality of the sperm, the semen analysis is a valued first step in the fertility assessment of a couple.

Please schedule your semen analysis with our lab before collection. We recommend you collect your semen specimen by masturbation in a sterile collection cup supplied by our office. You may collect your specimen at home or at a convenient location prior to dropping it off at the office. Because the time from collection to analysis is critical in evaluating the count and motility of sperm, we recommend you drop off your specimen at the office within one hour of collection. If any questions arise with regard to your semen analysis, please do not hesitate to call the office.

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Robert B. McWilliams, MD Reproductive Endocrinology and Gynecology

Semen Analysis

Robert B. McWilliams, MD
Reproductive Endocrinology
and Gynecology