​Tests for sperm quality

For men, fertility is a very important issue. When it comes to fertility, we must know the quality of sperm. Some men are unable to conceive for a long time, which may be due to abnormalities in this aspect. Therefore, for those who want to have children, it is necessary to check the sperm quality. Next, we will introduce in detail the items for checking sperm quality.

General examination

(1) Semen volume: A normal person ejaculates 2 to 5 ml at a time.

(2) Color and transparency: Normal semen is milky white or grayish white when just ejaculated, and becomes translucent milky white after liquefaction. It may be light yellow if the semen has not been ejaculated for a long time. Bright red or dark red hematospermia is seen in reproductive system inflammation, tuberculosis, and tumors, and yellow purulent semen is seen in seminal vesiculitis or prostatitis.

(3) Viscosity and liquefaction: Normal fresh semen is viscous and jelly-like a few seconds after discharge, and begins to liquefy after 30 minutes under the action of fibrinolytic enzymes in the semen. If the viscosity decreases and becomes rice soup-like, it may be due to a decrease in the number of sperm, which is seen in reproductive system inflammation. If the semen does not coagulate, it is seen in seminal vesicle obstruction or damage. If the semen does not liquefy after 1 hour, it may be due to inflammation that destroys fibrinolytic enzymes, such as prostatitis. The failure of sperm to liquefy can inhibit sperm motility and affect conception.

(4) Acidity and alkalinity: pH value. Normal semen is slightly alkaline with a pH of 7.2 to 8.0, which helps neutralize acidic vaginal secretions. A pH value less than 7 or greater than 8 can affect sperm activity and metabolism, which is not conducive to conception.

Microscopic examination

(1) Sperm survival rate: 30 to 60 minutes after ejaculation, the normal sperm survival rate should be 80% to 90%. Reduced sperm survival rate is an important cause of infertility.

The above content is an introduction to the items for checking sperm quality. When we check our bodies, we will conduct the examination according to certain purposes, so we also need to be sure about the sperm quality examination. There are many items for checking sperm quality, and patients can conduct relevant examinations according to the doctor's advice.