Semen Analysis for Artificial Insemination
Infertility is not only the result of a problem with a woman's reproductive system. Men also contribute to a couple’s infertility, which leads to many couples seeking reproductive help, including artificial insemination. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and a 2002 National Survey of Family Growth, 18 percent of men were diagnosed with a male-related infertility issues, that involved semen or sperm problems.
Causes of Infertility in Men
Many factors can play a role in male-related infertility, including having: - Unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as smoking, illicit drug use, drinking alcohol heavily, supplementing with testosterone, stress, and anabolic steroid use.
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, testicular conditions, previous injury or trauma, infection, cystic fibrosis, high fever, and mumps.
- Certain medical treatments, such as radiation, surgery, or chemotherapy.
- Varicoceles, which is a condition where the veins in the testicles are enlarged and cause the testicles to overheat, thereby impacting the shape and number of sperm.
Whether the reasons for infertility is due to abnormal sperm function, low sperm count, blockage, or some other factor, being unable to conceive a child can be frustrating and stressful for a couple. Fortunately, with today’s advancements in reproductive health, there are many options couples can take to realize their dreams of having a child. Semen AnalysisA semen analysis helps to determine if male fertility factors are contributing to a couple’s infertility. A semen analysis is done to evaluate these sperm factors: - sperm concentration
- sperm volume
- sperm motility (i.e movement)
- sperm morphology (shape)
Not only does the semen analysis provide the sperm count, but it also provides information on how healthy the sperm is, which are important factors to consider prior to artifical Insemination. It is also essential to note that just because a semen analysis result is slightly abnormal, that does not necessarily mean that the male is infertile. Male fertility testing brings to light if it is a causal factor to potential barriers to fertility. While an issue with a male’s sperm can be the sole problem of a couple’s infertility, it can also just be one of many factors. Here at New York Reproductive Wellness, we provide confidential fertility evaluation for men which includes a semen analysis. If abnormalities are detected in the initial semen analysis, you may either be recommended for a repeat semen analysis test or referred to a reproductive urologist for a further evaluation. If you’re interested in a fertility evaluation, please contact us to schedule an appointment by calling (516) 757-7673 today.
