Male infertility is common and treatable
In many couples the male partner contributes to delayed pregnancy, yet men often hesitate to get tested. A semen analysis is a simple, private test and is the first step. Identifying a male factor early can prevent months of unnecessary treatment for the woman and points to the right option quickly.
What a semen analysis shows
The test measures the number of sperm, how well they move (motility), their shape (morphology) and the volume and quality of the sample. Abnormal results are usually repeated after a few weeks because sperm quality varies. Your doctor may then advise hormone tests, an ultrasound of the scrotum or other investigations.
Common causes
- Varicocele, an enlargement of veins around the testis
- Infections and previous injury or surgery
- Hormonal disorders
- Blockage of the sperm passage, or absence of the vas deferens
- Lifestyle factors: smoking, alcohol, obesity, excess heat and stress
- Genetic causes in some men with very low or no sperm
Treatment options
- Lifestyle and medical treatment: weight loss, stopping tobacco, treating infection and hormonal imbalance.
- Surgery: correction of a varicocele or a blockage when suitable.
- IUI: for mild reduction in sperm parameters.
- IVF with ICSI: a single healthy sperm is injected into each egg, helpful when count or motility is low (learn about ICSI).
- Surgical sperm retrieval (TESA, PESA, micro-TESE): when no sperm are found in the semen but may be present in the testis (details).
- Donor sperm: considered when other options are not possible, under the legal framework.
Habits that help sperm health
Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol, maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, avoid prolonged heat exposure such as laptops on the lap or very hot baths, eat a balanced diet and avoid unprescribed supplements or steroids.
Preparing for a semen test
You will be told the number of days of abstinence to observe before giving the sample, usually two to five days. Tell the doctor about recent fever, medicines and previous reports.
Care at Sparsh
Men and couples are evaluated together at the IVF & Fertility department under Dr. Deepa Seth. See also infertility treatment in Varanasi.
हिंदी में संक्षेप
पुरुष बांझपन में पहला कदम सीमन जांच है। कम शुक्राणु, कमजोर गति या शुक्राणु न होने पर वैरिकोसील का इलाज, IUI, ICSI या सर्जिकल स्पर्म रिट्रीवल जैसे विकल्प हैं। जांच से घबराएं नहीं, यह आसान और निजी होती है।
Visit Sparsh in Chitaipur, Varanasi
Sparsh Mother & Child Hospital & IVF Fertility Center, Gokulpuram Colony, Chitaipur - Chunar Road, Kandwa, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh 221106. Open 24 hours. Call +91 80900 76144 or book an appointment online.
Frequently asked questions
How is male infertility diagnosed?
Can low sperm count be treated?
What if there are no sperm in the semen?
Does semen quality change over time?
Is a semen test private?
Ready to talk to a specialist?
Book a consultation and our team will confirm your appointment. Every plan is made after an individual examination.
Medical information is general and does not replace an examination. Outcomes vary between patients. For an emergency, use appropriate emergency services.