A spermiogram provides men with a basic understanding of their fertility. It involves a microscopic analysis of ejaculate conducted in an andrological laboratory. Preventive sperm examination should be undertaken by every man. The results can be reassuring, and might even motivate the freezing of healthy sperm, or they can indicate problems and facilitate their resolution.
What can be determined from a spermiogram, and what are the ideal values?
The basic parameters of a spermiogram include the number, shape, and motility of sperm. Additionally, it assesses pH, viscosity, liquefaction time, and the presence of white blood cells. This test is a fundamental initial examination for a couple, and without a spermiogram, conducting any detailed fertility examinations in women is meaningless.
“To classify a spermiogram as normal, the total volume of ejaculate should not be less than 1.5 ml. The concentration of sperm in 1 ml of fluid should be at least 15 million,” explains MUDr. Kateřina Veselá, Ph.D., director of Repromeda. The ejaculate should contain at least 40% motile sperm and at least 4% of the sperm should have a normal shape without deformities.
How is sperm collection done?
“To obtain a sufficient amount of ejaculate, two to three days of sexual abstinence should precede the collection. Longer or shorter abstinence is not advisable as it could lead to skewed results,” describes Veselá, adding that there is no need to fear the collection process itself. Clinics provide a special discreet room for this purpose, where a man can go alone or accompanied. The sample, obtained by masturbation, is submitted in a sterile container provided by the clinic. If, for any reason, you want to bring the sample from home, it’s not a problem. However, it is necessary to deliver it as soon as possible, ideally within an hour, and keep in mind that the results may be affected. Nevertheless, the sample must always be submitted personally by the man. More about sperm collection can be found here.
How to improve the values of a spermiogram?
The lifestyle of a man significantly affects the quality of sperm. If you want to improve your spermiogram, we recommend the following steps:
- Include regular physical activity, especially if you have a sedentary job.
- Exercise is generally a good step, but be cautious with frequent cycling.
- Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals. This means mainly a sufficient amount of vegetables, legumes, and other primary ingredients. Necessary nutrients can also be obtained from dietary supplements.
- Don’t forget about getting enough quality sleep.
- It should be given to limit or completely avoid the consumption of addictive substances, such as alcohol, cigarettes, or other drugs.
“Also remember that sperm do not thrive in excessive heat. They need a temperature about 2 to 3 degrees lower than the rest of the body for their maturation. Therefore, limit sauna visits, hot (whirlpool) baths, using a laptop on your lap, and wearing tight underwear or trousers,” adds doctor Veselá.
What to do if you have poor spermiogram values?
If you and your partner are trying for a baby and you’ve tried all the above steps to improve sperm quality without success, schedule a non-binding consultation at Repromeda. It may turn out that the causes are genetic or a result of a past illness. The problem with conception can obviously be hidden elsewhere than just in the sperm. At the initial consultation, the doctor will recommend the ideal procedure so that you can become parents of a healthy baby as soon as possible. In addition to the spermiogram examination, we conduct a comprehensive examination of men before IVF, which reveals other infertility issues.
