Semen Analysis at Caribbean Fertility Centre CFC
A Semen Analysis is a basic test that assesses the quality and quantity of sperm. This test is recommended for coupes who are trying to achieve a pregnancy as it helps identify male factor infertility. We assess parameters such as the semen volume, sperm, concentration (count), motility (how easily they move around), morphology (shape of the sperm) and progression (forward movement).
When preparing for your semen analysis, your health professional will ask that you have an ejaculate then abstain from sexual intercourse for 3-5 days prior to your test. On the day of your analysis, the semen sample can be produced in one of three (3) ways:
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You will be taken into a private room to ejaculate into a sterile, universal cup that will be provided.
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In instances where it is difficult to produce a sample via masturbation at the doctor’s office, you may produce your sample at home. This sample must be kept at room temperature and taken to the lab within an hour of ejaculation.
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Where the sample is produced via sexual intercourse, a special condom must be used that collects the semen during intercourse. Lubricants are prohibited as this can affect your sperm motility and therefore gives an incorrect result.
Here at Caribbean Fertility Centre (CFC), a semen analysis is vital in helping us determine an appropriate, individualized treatment plan for each patient. Where sperm parameters are abnormal, we may recommend supplements and repeat the semen analysis. We also use semen analysis to determine the best fertility treatment for you (intrauterine insemination (IUI) , in vitro fertilisation (IVF), ovulation induction (OI) or surgical sperm retrieval (SSR)).