Spermogram - analysis of the ejaculate (sperm). This is the only study to assess the fertility of men. In addition, the spermogram shows the presence or absence of problems with the pelvic organs. In this article we will explain how to decipher spermogram.
What does the spermogram show?
So, you have in your hands a form with the results of the analysis of the spermogram. If you feel well, lead a healthy lifestyle, and also if you have passed the ejaculate for analysis with observance of all requirements, then you have the right to expect a good spermogram result. Normally spermogram indicators are as follows:
| Index | Norm |
| Liquefaction time | 10-60 minutes |
| Scope | 2.0-6.0 ml |
| The hydrogen index (pH) | 7.2-8.0 |
| Colour | grayish white, yellowish, milky |
| Number of sperm in ejaculate | 40-500 million |
| Leukocytes | not more than 1 million / ml |
| Erythrocytes | No |
| Slime | absent |
| Concentration (the number of sperm in 1 ml) | 20-120 million / ml |
| Active mobility (category A) | more than 25% |
| Weak (category B) A + B | more than 50% |
| Slightly mobile (category C) | less than 50% |
| Fixed (Category D) | not more than 6-10% |
| Correct morphology | more than 50% |
| Agglutination | No |
| MAR-test | less than 50% |
Deciphering the analysis of the spermogram is usually done by an andrologist. However, most men would like to know how to read the spermogram independently, without waiting for the help of a specialist. Let's see what the analysis of the spermogram shows.
The volume of ejaculate is usually 3-5 ml. A decrease in this indicator indicates an insufficient function of the prostate gland and other gonads. Blame to everything, as a rule, a low content of male sex hormones in the blood. Excess sperm volume is sometimes associated with prostatitis and vesiculitis.
The time of liquefaction of the sperm is up to 1 hour. The increase in this time may be a consequence of chronic prostatitis or vesiculitis. Increased liquefaction time dramatically reduces the likelihood of conception.
The color of the sperm in norm can be white, grayish or yellowish. Ejaculate of a red or brown hue indicates possible injuries of the genital organs, calculous form of prostatitis, chronic vesicles.
The hydrogen index (pH) is 7.2-7.8, that is, the sperm has a slightly alkaline environment. The deviation may be associated with prostatitis or vesiculitis.
The number of spermatozoa should be at least 20 million in 1 ml of sperm and at least 60 million in the total volume of ejaculate. Low concentration of spermatozoa (oligozoospermia) indicates problems in the testicles.
Mobility of spermatozoa is one of the most important indicators of spermogram. According to their mobility, spermatozoa are divided into the following groups:
- group A - fast, move straight;
- group B - slow, move straight;
- group C - slow, move from side to side or in a circle;
- group D are fixed.
Spermatozoa of group A should be at least 25%, and spermatozoa of groups A and B - more than 50%. Reduction of sperm motility (astenozoospermia) can be a consequence of diseases of the sexual glands, toxic and thermal lesions of the testicles.
The morphology of spermatozoa reflects the percentage of normal spermatozoa (they should be more than 20%), capable of fertilization. A small number of normal forms of spermatozoa (teratozoospermia) can be a consequence of toxic and radiation damage to the genitals, as well as inflammatory diseases.
Agglutination, or gluing of spermatozoa among themselves , is normally absent. The appearance of agglutination indicates a violation of the immune system, as well as possible chronic inflammatory processes.
Leukocytes can be present in the ejaculate, but not more than 1 million / ml. Excess of this indicator is a sign of inflammation of the pelvic organs.
Erythrocytes in sperm should not be present. Their appearance is a sign of trauma, tumors of the genital organs, chronic prostatitis or vesiculitis.
Slime in the semen should not be present. A large amount of mucus speaks of an inflammatory process.
MAR-test, or detection of antispermal bodies (ASA, or ACAT) , is performed with an expanded analysis of the spermogram. These antibodies to spermatozoa can be produced both in the male and in the female body, causing infertility.
Bad results spermogrammy - what to do?
First of all, do not worry: absolutely all indicators change over time. And there is an opportunity to improve the results. That is why the spermogram must be taken at least two times with an interval of two weeks.