Spermogram: what é, like é made and what is it for

The spermogram is a simple test that is made from the analysis of a semen sample that must be collected by the man in the laboratory after masturbation. So that the test result does not suffer interference, it is recommended that the man does not have sexual intercourse 2 to 5 days before the test and, in some cases, it may be recommended that the collection be done on an empty stomach.

How it's done

To perform the exam, a semen sample is required, which should preferably be collected in the laboratory itself through masturbation, and, in some cases, fasting may be recommended, the time of which must be determined by the doctor. The ejaculated material is deposited in a proper container provided by the laboratory and then sent for analysis.

It is important that the man does not practice sexual intercourse or any other action that causes ejaculation 2 to 5 days before performing the exam, as it can influence the total amount of sperm present in the semen. In addition, masturbation for collection should not be done with the aid of lubricants, as they may interfere with the test result.

Normally, laboratories do not accept sperm that has not been collected at the clinic itself and it is not recommended that sperm be collected after withdrawal or through condoms, as it can also interfere with the test result.

What is analyzed

Semen analysis occurs in two stages, the first being a macroscopic analysis and the second a microscopic analysis. Both steps are essential for evaluating the quality and quantity of sperm capable of fertilizing an egg, thus indicating the man's reproductive capacity.

The macroscopic analysis, that is, with the naked eye, takes into account the evaluation of criteria such as viscosity, color, pH, volume and time that the semen takes to become completely liquid, called liquefaction. The microscopic analysis involves the analysis of criteria that can only be visualized with the aid of a microscope, such as sperm concentration per mL and per total ejaculated volume, motility, vitality and morphology.

From the analyzes carried out in the laboratory, a report is released containing all the parameters related to the exam in accordance with the recommendations of the World He alth Organization. Understand how to interpret the spermogram result.

What is it for

Usually the spermogram is indicated by the urologist when the couple has difficulties getting pregnant, thus, it is investigated if the man is able to produce viable sperm and in sufficient quantities. In addition, it can be indicated when the man has some genetic, physical or immunological sign that may interfere with male fertility.

Thus, the spermogram is performed to assess the functioning of the testes and the integrity of the epididymis, thus analyzing the quality and quantity of sperm produced by men.

Complementary exams

Depending on the result of the sperm analysis and the man's clinical condition, the urologist may recommend additional tests, such as:

Spermogram under magnification, which allows a more accurate analysis of sperm morphology;
DNA fragmentation, which checks the amount of DNA that is released from the sperm and remains in the seminal fluid, which can indicate infertility depending on the DNA concentration;
FISH, which is a molecular test performed with the aim of verifying the amount of deficient sperm;
Viral load test, which is usually ordered for men who have illnesses caused by viruses, such as HIV, for example.

In addition to these complementary tests, seminal freezing may be recommended by the doctor if the man is going to undergo or is undergoing chemotherapy treatment.