When Should I Do Sperm Analysis Testing?

Male factor infertility is a reason for approximately 40% of infertility cases. The stakes are getting higher with time because the age of procreation is gradually increasing. Nowadays, men tend to have children later in life compared to past times. Considering this, male fertility testing, especially semen analysis, has become an essential tool for fertility evaluation.

The following are circumstances in which a sperm analysis test is recommended. In addition, we highly suggest following our 10 Steps To Improve Sperm Quality guide when considering these situations.

Planning a Family

Male infertility is suspected when a couple cannot conceive after one year of regular and unprotected intercourse. When trying to evaluate the source of infertility, both partners are tested. Based on the nature of testing, male fertility investigation is generally less invasive. Thus, it may make sense to start with the male partner and get a semen analysis first.

As semen analysis gives plenty of information about sperm health, it allows navigation of fertility testing. The results can give you clues about parts of the reproductive system that should be investigated more. It can also save you from many unnecessary and costly investigations.

Improving Fertility

Getting a semen analysis indicates the condition of your overall sexual health. Men, especially those who have a family history of infertility or prolonged sitting jobs, can now check their sperm health by a simple test. This proactive approach allows you to stay informed and improve your fertility.

Saving Sperm For Future Use

Aging or medical conditions, like cancer, decline sperm quality. If you plan to freeze your spermfor future use, a semen analysis is the first step.

Pre or Post Vasectomy

Vasectomy is a long-term contraception method for men. The vas deferens tube in males is ligated to block the passage of sperm. It is a non-invasive procedure, and a semen analysis is a way to confirm results.

If the semen analysis shows azoospermia after ten weeks of vasectomy, it depicts a successful procedure. The recommended timeline for semen analysis following a vasectomy is 8 to 20 weeks. Similarly, after the reversal vasectomy, testing is done to ensure if the supply of sperm in the ejaculate has resumed.

While Undergoing IVF

Assisted reproductive technology, like IVF, aims to provide fertility solutions to couples who are unable to conceive. IVF involves manual fertilization by retrieving the egg from the female partner and sperm cells from the male partner. The semen analysis should be done before beginning this procedure to analyze the health and reproductive potential of sperm.