Semen Analysis

Infertility is a couple’s problem. Most studies suggest that problems with the male account for about 40% of all infertility, while couples with problems with both partners account for another 20%. The basic test to evaluate fertility in the male is the Semen Analysis.

The purpose of the semen analysis is to:

1. evaluate the seminal plasma for abnormalities in its density, volume and biochemical characteristics
2. look at the sperm under the microscope for abnormalities in number, shape and movement

Based on the results of the semen analysis, recommendations on further evaluation and/or therapy may be made.

How to Schedule a Semen Analysis

Note: A physician’s order or consult with Dr. Frattarelli or Dr. Karmon is need prior to scheduling.

1. Call the office to schedule the semen analysis.
2. An appointment is absolutely necessary so that the specimen may be evaluated in an appropriate and timely manner.
3. If you are unable to make the appointment, please call the scheduling number to cancel, so that another patient may be scheduled.
4. All specimens should be produced by masturbation. Never use over-the-counter condoms meant for contraception: they are toxic to sperm. If collection is by other than masturbation, you will be given a special sterile condom by our office, along with special directions on how to use it.

Specimen Collection Instructions

1. Refrain from any sexual activity that would result in ejaculation of semen for at least 2 days, but not longer than 5 days prior to the specimen collection.
2. The specimen will be collected by masturbation in a private room in the office complex or at home.
   • a. You will be provided a sterile container from the laboratory.
   • b. No lubricants (except mineral oil) are to be used because they are bad for the sperm.
   • c. Wash your hands prior to producing the specimen to minimize the chances for contamination.
   • d. Remove the lid from the container.
   • e. Produce the specimen.
     • i. Avoid touching the inside of the container with your fingers or penis.
     • ii. Replace the lid immediately after completing the collection.
     • iii. Interrupted intercourse is not an acceptable method of collection for infertility purposes.
   • f. Please deliver your sample directly by handing it to a lab representative.

Home Collections

The most accurate semen analysis is the one that has been produced at the lab and evaluated promptly. We strongly urge you to produce the specimen at our facility if at all possible. However, we understand that this is not feasible for all couples. Please follow the instructions below for home collections:

1. Obtain a sterile collection container from the office.
2. This specimen should also be produced by masturbation.
3. Follow the collection instructions above.
4. Make sure the specimen is properly labeled.
5. The specimen should be delivered to the laboratory within one hour of ejaculation.
6. Care should be taken to maintain the specimen at body temperature (carried upright in an inside pocket, close to the body).
7. DO NOT refrigerate the specimen or place it in hot water.
8. If there are problems with the collection, please let the lab personnel know, as this will aid in interpretation of the specimen.

Interpreting the Results of the Semen Analysis

At its most basic level, the infertility work-up is trying to determine which is the optimal method to deliver the sperm to the egg. There are 4 ways to deliver the sperm to the egg: (1) intercourse, (2) artificial insemination, (3) in vitro fertilization (IVF), and (4) IVF using intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

The semen analysis results are interpreted within the context of the couple’s entire evaluation to provide the most efficient and effective means of sperm delivery for a given situation.

Semen Analysis Normal Values

Negative Environmental Factors and Sperm Function

Men have the benefit of being able to continuously produce sperm (in contrast to a woman being limited to 300-400,000 oocytes that she is born with). This allows men to make behavioral changes that might improve sperm quality. A variety of chemicals are used by men that can adversely affect sperm production and/or function. These include alcohol, marijuana, cocaine, cigarette smoke, and narcotics. For the occasional user of these substances, stopping their use can result in improved semen parameters in 3-6 months for some men.

However, long-term use can result in permanent impairment. A number of drugs also contribute to problems with sperm. These include calcium-channel blockers (anti-hypertensives, see list below), cimetidine, spironolactone, nitrofurantion, sulfasalazine, erythromycin, tetracycline, and anabolic steroids. Other drugs that can be problematic include chromium picolinate, DHEA, ansdrostendione, colchicines, methotrexate and niradazole. Calcium-channel blockers are particularly important to know about, as the sperm can appear normal, but not be able to fertilize an egg because of changes induced in the sperm cell membrane by the medicine.

Chemical exposures by other means can affect sperm production/function. These include heavy metals (lead, mercury, boron), organic solvents (acetone, ethylene glycol, benzene, toluene, etc) and pesticides (dibromochloropropane, ethylene dibromide, carbaryl, chordecone). Other physical factors that have been associated with sperm abnormalities or reduced fertility include, heat, vibration (truck driving, bike riding), electromagnetic fields and microwave radiation. Therapeutic interventions might include the use of artificial insemination, donor insemination, in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection with IVF.

Calcium-Channel Blockers.

Below are listed the calcium-channel blockers that are listed below from the 2001 PDR. If you are on one of these drugs, it is important to tell your doctor and nurse. Calcium-channel blocker can alter the sperm cell membrane so that they cannot fertilize an egg, despite being normal in every other way. If you are not sure about one of your medications, please ask your doctor or nurse.