Semen Analysis in Virginia Beach, VA

Semen analysis is a diagnostic test used to evaluate the quality and quantity of semen produced by a biological male. The test is a standard evaluation for infertility investigations and is usually the first step taken in determining the cause of infertility.

This test measures a few key factors of semen, including the volume, motility, morphology, and concentration of sperm. The analysis is typically performed by a qualified healthcare professional in a laboratory setting, with the sample collected by the individual providing the semen.

Semen analysis is an essential tool in identifying male fertility issues, and with the help of this test, doctors can recommend a personalized treatment plan for their patients and their partners to achieve a healthy pregnancy.

Normally, a man will produce between 1.5 and 5 milliliters of semen. The number of sperm within each milliliter is also measured, and a healthy number is typically between 15 million and 200 million sperm/ml.

Sperm quality is evaluated by looking at the shape and structure of the sperm cells. Normal healthy sperm cells have a smooth, oval shape with a single, long tail. Abnormal sperm may have a shorter or curved tail, double heads, or other defects that can make it more difficult for them to reach and fertilize a woman’s egg.

The movement or motility of the sperm is also analyzed. Healthy sperm can swim rapidly and move towards the egg. A normal analysis will display at least 40% of the sperm with good forward motion, and a higher percentage is preferable.

In terms of quantity, a good sperm test result should show a sufficient number of sperm cells in the sample. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines normal sperm count as 15 million to 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Anything below this range may decrease the chances of fertilization.

Quality of the sperm is another important factor. A good sperm test result should show that the majority of sperm cells have normal shapes and sizes. Sperm with abnormal shapes or sizes may have difficulty fertilizing an egg, leading to infertility.

Motility or sperm movement also needs to be taken into consideration. A good sperm test result shows that a significant percentage of sperm are actively moving in a forward direction. This indicates that the sperm cells have the ability to swim through the female reproductive tract and reach the egg for fertilization.

Healthy sperm is essential to fertility and conception. A man’s sperm count, motility, and morphology can greatly affect his ability to father a child. Though it is difficult to determine the quality of one’s sperm without a semen analysis, here are some general signs of healthy sperm:

– Sperm count. The average sperm count is 15 to 200 million per milliliter. A low sperm count can affect fertility and make it difficult to conceive, while a high sperm count can result in poor-quality sperm.

– Sperm motility. Healthy sperm should be able to swim in a straight line quickly and have forward movement in order to get to the egg.

– Sperm morphology. This refers to the overall size and shape of the sperm. Normal sperm have an oval head and a long tail, while abnormal sperm may have a small or misshapen head or multiple tails.

– Semen volume. The range for healthy semen volume is 1.5 to 5 milliliters per ejaculation. A low semen volume can indicate issues with the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, or epididymis.

– pH level. The pH of healthy semen should fall between 7.2 and 8.0. High acidity can damage sperm and decrease their motility.

– Speed. Sperm should swim at a steady and consistent speed, covering a distance of 25-30 micrometers per second.

– Color. Healthy semen is typically a pearly white or gray color. Yellow or green semen can indicate an infection or other health concerns.

Semen analysis can help hopeful parents get to the bottom of their infertility issues. Contact us at The New Hope Center for Reproductive Medicine for more information about our services or to get booked in for an appointment – we would be happy to answer any questions that you may have! We serve patients from Virginia Beach VA, Rudee Heights VA, Lynnhaven VA, Linkhorn Estates VA and Dam Neck VA.