A semen analysis can provide important information about a man’s fertility
A semen analysis is a common type of male fertility testing. Our Connecticut fertility doctor uses this test to learn about a man’s sperm count, motility (movement) and morphology (shape). Andrew Levi MD often recommends this test when a man first seeks treatment at our clinic.
Male infertility plays a role in about 40% of infertility cases. As a result, this analysis can be an important first step to help patients learn how to move past fertility barriers and welcome a baby.
What happens during a semen analysis?
After reviewing the male patient’s medical history, our Connecticut fertility doctor typically schedules a semen analysis. The process of providing sperm for an analysis is very simple.
Refrain from ejaculating. It’s best for men to not ejaculate for two to five days before providing a semen sample. This helps ensure that the sample offers accurate results.
Collect the sample. Men can collect their sample for male fertility testing in a private space at our clinic or at home. With at-home collection, it’s important to keep the sample at body temperature and deliver it to our clinic within an hour of collection. With both options, we will provide a sterile container for the sample.
Analysis in the lab. Following collection, a specialist in our lab will analyze the sample’s volume, concentration, motility and morphology before sending the results to Dr. Levi.
Providing a second sample. We often recommend that the man provides a second semen sample on a different day. This can help confirm the results.
After reviewing the results, Dr. Levi will discuss the next steps. If the results from the semen analysis indicate that the man needs additional testing, Dr. Levi will likely recommend a blood test to evaluate the man’s hormones. In some cases, he might also refer the man to a urologist.
Treatment options after male fertility testing
Based on the test results, our Connecticut fertility doctor will develop a customized treatment plan. There are numerous treatment options that can help men with sperm-related fertility challenges.
Intrauterine insemination (IUI). During this treatment, Dr. Levi places sperm from the male patient directly into the uterus of the patient’s partner. IUI is a common treatment option for men with abnormal sperm counts or low sperm motility.
In vitro fertilization (IVF). IVF is a popular treatment that allows an embryologist to use the man’s sperm to fertilize the eggs of his partner or egg donor. After fertilization, Dr. Levi transfers one of the resulting embryos into the uterus of the man’s partner or gestational carrier. Men with abnormal sperm count or function can benefit from IVF.
IVF with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). For men with fertility challenges, Dr. Levi might recommend ICSI. This treatment involves an embryologist injecting a single healthy sperm into the center of each mature egg.
Microsurgical epididymal sperm aspiration (MESA). If a man can produce sperm but cannot ejaculate it, MESA can be a helpful treatment. It involves the doctor collecting semen from the coiled tube lying behind and above each testicle.
Our Connecticut fertility doctor provides comprehensive support for patients navigating male fertility challenges. This support often results in the patients fulfilling their dream of parenthood. Contact us to learn more about male fertility testing, including semen analysis.
