THE BASIC ASSESSMENT FOR MALE FERTILITY

THE BASIC ASSESSMENT FOR MALE FERTILITY 

Sperm count

This is the measurement of how many million sperm there are in each milliliter of seminal fluid. An average sperm concentration is more than 60 million per milliliter. A count of less than 20 million per milliliter is considered a low sperm count or sub fertile (a less than normal capacity for reproduction). 

Motility

The ability for the sperm to ‘swim’ is also an important factor. In a sample 50% or more of the sperm cells should be rapidly moving (forward progression). 

Morphology (shape)

Examination under a microscope determines if the sperm cells meet specific sets of structural criteria. At least 30% of sperm should appear ‘normal’. This exam checks for abnormal head or tail formations, as well as immature germ cells (IGC). 

Seminal fluid

Semen is the fluid that contains the sperm. This is checked for color, any abnormal cells and the amount of time the fluid takes to liquefy after ejaculation (viscosity). Sperm cells account for only 1 - 2% percent of the semen volume, so any problems with this fluid can adversely interfere with the function and movement of the sperm. 

Volume of ejaculate

It is important for the whole ejaculate to be collected in the sample cup. Anxiety may cause the man to have a spillage while collecting the fluid. Let the doctor know if this has been the case. A normal ejaculation for a healthy man is 2 to 6 ml. If only a partial sample has been collected, then the correct measurement can not be taken. Either too high or low volume can indicate a problem with the seminal vesicles or the prostate. If the volume of fluid is too high, then it may be too diluted to successfully allow the sperm to travel to the egg. Too low and the sperm can find it difficult to reach the woman’s cervix. 

pH level

The pH level is also checked to see if it is normal (7.2 - 8). Below this amount (termed as acidic) may be associated with a seminal vesicle abnormality. Above pH 8 (alkaline) may be caused by an infection. 

Total motile count

This assessment measures the number of moving sperm in the entire ejaculate. This is calculated by multiplying the volume, by the concentration, by the percentage of motile sperm.