Semen Analysis

Summary: Undoubtedly, the male and his semen quality is a key factor in investigating and addressing infertility. Therefore, the evaluation of the male partner is a mandatory step in the diagnosis and treatment of couple with infertility. Semen analysis (SA) is the standard test for evaluating male fertility. The macroscopic attributes of a semen sample include volume, appearance, color, coagulation/liquefaction, viscosity and the microscopic characteristics comprise sperm concentration, motility, viability, morphology as well as cellular components such as leukocyte concentration and immature germ cells. The SA should be performed by using standard techniques and criteria as described by the World Health Organization (WHO). The WHO 2010 criteria are a guideline to improve SA but it is not obligatory and a man should not be classified as fertile or infertile based only on the SA or spermogram. Overall the traditional methods of SA were highly dependent on the user s eyes. Currently Computer Assisted SA (CASA) have become a common method in laboratories worldwide. These methods are more objective, reproducible and superior in measurement of sperm motility. Moreover, additional parameters can be measured such as curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight-line velocity (VSL), linearity and flagellar beat frequency and amplitude of lateral head (ALH).