Basic Semen Analysis is the first fundamental step in investigating male infertility. It consists of several sub-analyses that help determine the causes of infertility.
Basic Semen Analysis is also used in the monitoring of varicocele and the evaluation of successful ligation of the vas deferens (vasectomy) as a method of male contraception.
When should the Semen Analysis be done?
85% of couples will have children within a year when there is regular intercourse without the use of contraceptives. This means ejaculation inside the vagina and preferably on the fertile days of the partner.
A couple is considered infertile if conception is not achieved after 12 months (not necessarily consecutive) of effort. However, when the woman is over 35 years old and fertility rates begin to decline, it is considered wise to start the investigation after 6 months of effort. Thus, if a couple in whom the woman is under 35 has not conceived in one year or when the woman is over 35 and has not conceived in 6 months, a semen analysis (spermogram) should be performed, and the investigation of fertility should begin - both male and female.
What if problems are found in the Semen Analysis?
Semen analysis has significant variability even within the same individual. Therefore, it is always advisable to perform at least two semen analyses to make any diagnosis. Some men have so much variation in sperm count values that more than two semen analyses must be performed to determine any abnormal condition. However, the most critical first step in assessing male fertility potential is sperm analysis with the spermogram.
In 75% of cases, the causes of infertility can be found, and many of the pathological findings in the spermogram can be reversed. But in a third of cases, the causes are not reversible. But in these cases, too, there may be alternatives to childbearing.
Unfortunately, there is no specific magic number in the semen analysis of men whose partners will become pregnant that differentiates them from those who will not. The wives of some men with inferior semen analysis results can easily conceive, while the wives of some men with excellent semen analysis results may have difficulties. However, men with good semen analysis results as a group will conceive at significantly higher rates than those with moderate or poor semen analysis results.
The Sperm Analysis will help determine if a male factor is involved in the couple's infertility. Some findings from sperm analysis indicate specific problems. For example, an increased white blood cell count may indicate inflammation. Of course, other abnormalities in the semen analysis are not so exact. For example, there are several causes of decreased sperm count (oligozoospermia) or decreased sperm motility (asthenozoospermia).
Why choose us for your Semen Analysis?
Examining the sperm, or Semen Analysis, is a complex medical analysis. At Diagnostiki Athinon, we do much more spermograms than the typical microbiological laboratories. Therefore, all the staff has excellent experience in all phases of semen analysis (pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical). Unlike other "spermatology" laboratories or in vitro fertilization clinics, in our laboratory, we perform all sperm analyses immediately after the sample is taken and perform all the necessary secondary and additional tests that may be needed either in the same semen sample or in other biological materials (blood, urine, etc.). This maximizes the information that can be obtained to make a definitive diagnosis and reduces the number of sperm tests one may need.
Experience: Semen analyses are complex and technically demanding. Inadequate or insufficient semen analysis can lead to a significant loss of medical information, which can significantly delay the patient's treatment. Unlike many other laboratory tests, a semen analysis is based solely on the experience of those who perform it. At Diagnostiki Athinon, we have advanced laboratory analysis protocols, and all the tests are performed and supervised by the very experienced laboratory medical doctor (bio-pathologist), who is scientifically responsible for the laboratory.
Time: The sample must be examined within one hour of collection to obtain accurate results in semen analysis. Otherwise, measuring sperm motility and specific characteristics can be highly inaccurate. At Diagnostiki Athinon, the test is performed at the laboratory by appointment, and no other sample is analyzed simultaneously. Ideally, the sample should be collected in the laboratory. However, following the Semen Collection Instructions can allow you to bring the sample from home.
Location: At Diagnostiki Athinon, we have a unique discreet space for taking the sample, equipped with a TV & WiFi for the patient's convenience during sampling.
Laboratory Completeness: Some findings during semen analysis may indicate the need for additional tests. At Diagnostiki Athinon, a medical clinical laboratory, we can perform all the tests that may be required, either in the sperm, urine, or blood, to investigate the causes of male infertility thoroughly.
Medical opinion: The final results are not just numbers and measurements. They represent a medical reality. The laboratory doctor discusses and analyzes the results with the patient, clarifying possible questions. In addition, the results are discussed with your doctor, who helps and participates in creating the appropriate treatment plan on time.
We have up-to-date laboratory equipment that is suitably adapted to the needs of semen analysis.
All sperm testing procedures follow the latest World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
We work closely with research and university institutions in Greece and abroad to provide patients and health scientists who trust us with many specialized and innovative laboratory analyses on investigating male infertility.
Quality assurance throughout the whole process. Diagnostiki Athinon has been operating for many years and is certified with the ISO 9001:2008 quality management standard (now ISO 9001:2015). In addition to participating in standard external quality controls, we join in specialized quality controls related to spermogram and sperm analyses.
It's easy to make an appointment. Appointments are available on weekdays from 7.30 to 19.30 and on Saturdays from 8.00 to 11.30.
Speedy response times and the ability to publish the results on the same day. Semen analysis reports (and for all tests) can be sent by e-mail, fax, and post or received in the laboratory, always ensuring medical confidentiality.
The results of the spermogram can also be published in English at no extra charge.
Access to Diagnostiki Athinon is effortless by public transport and car, whether for the sample delivery or your appointment.
Our prices for the Basic Semen Analysis and the other laboratory tests are the most competitive.
