Could it be the man?

In approximately one third of cases, male fertility is a decisive factor. A semen analysis is the central test for assessing male fertility and identifying possible causes at an early stage.

What is a semen analysis — and why does it matter?

A semen analysis is a comprehensive examination of the ejaculate, complemented by blood and bacteriological tests, that provides detailed information about the number, motility and quality of sperm. It allows the chances of successful fertilisation to be realistically assessed and targeted measures to be put in place.

Many couples are surprised by the range of factors that can influence male fertility — from lifestyle and diet to infections and immunological responses. A semen analysis provides clear orientation.

Which parameters are assessed?

A semen analysis evaluates several core characteristics of the ejaculate and the sperm. These include volume, colour, consistency, motility, morphology and vitality of the sperm. DNA quality is also assessed, as damage to the genetic material can significantly reduce the chances of pregnancy.

The analysis also checks whether antibodies have formed against the sperm itself — which can impair motility — and whether immature sperm cells or inflammatory cells are present.

Results are communicated together with a medical assessment. When all values fall within the normal range, this is referred to as normozoospermia. Deviations carry specific designations: oligoasthenoteratozoospermia, for example, indicates that multiple parameters are simultaneously reduced.

Causes of impaired male fertility

In some cases, no clear cause can be identified — a situation referred to as idiopathic infertility. There are, however, known factors that can negatively affect sperm quality:

• Overheating of the testicles due to clothing or occupational conditions
• Poor diet, excess weight and physical inactivity
• Smoking, alcohol or drug use
• Environmental toxins such as parabens or bisphenol A
• Certain medications or underlying conditions
• Age-related changes in sperm quality

A semen analysis: snapshot or long-term diagnosis?

It is important to understand that a semen analysis represents a snapshot. Values can change over the course of a few months. For this reason, the WHO recommends repeating the analysis after no more than three months if the initial results are abnormal, in order to obtain a reliable assessment.

Conclusion

The semen analysis as a key to fertility
A semen analysis is an indispensable step in comprehensively assessing male fertility. Together with a detailed medical history, blood work and state-of-the-art diagnostics, it allows possible causes to be identified and targeted measures to be taken to optimise the chances of pregnancy.

At imi, we accompany you with empathy and clinical expertise through the full assessment of male fertility — from diagnostics through to individualised recommendations. In this way, we ensure that both you and your partner have the best possible foundation for achieving your wish for a child.