The spermogram exam aims to analyze the quantity and quality of man's sperm and is mainly requested to investigate the cause of infertility in a couple, for example. In addition to being asked to assess a man's reproductive capacity, this test can also be ordered after vasectomy surgery and to assess testicle function.
The spermogram costs between R $ 70 and R $ 180.00 depending on the laboratory, but it is available free of charge by SUS.
How is done
To perform the exam, a semen sample is required, which should be collected, preferably, in the laboratory itself through masturbation. The ejaculated material is deposited in a proper container provided by the laboratory and then sent for analysis.
It is important that the man does not engage in sexual intercourse or any other action that causes ejaculation 2 to 5 days before undergoing the test, as it can influence the total amount of sperm present in the semen. In addition, masturbation for collection should not be done with the help of lubricants, as they may interfere with the test result.
What is analyzed
The semen analysis occurs in two stages, the first being a macroscopic analysis and the second a microscopic analysis. Both steps are fundamental for evaluating the quality and quantity of sperm capable of fertilizing an egg, thus indicating man's reproductive capacity.
Macroscopic analysis, that is, with the naked eye, takes into account the evaluation of criteria such as viscosity, color, pH, volume and time that the semen takes to become completely liquid, called liquefaction. Microscopic analysis involves the analysis of criteria that can only be viewed with the aid of a microscope, such as sperm concentration per mL and total ejaculated volume, motility, vitality and morphology.
From the analyzes performed in the laboratory, a report is released containing all parameters related to the examination in accordance with the recommendations of the World Health Organization. Understand how to interpret the result of the spermogram.
When is indicated
Normally, the spermogram is indicated by the urologist when the couple has difficulties to get pregnant, thus investigating whether the man is capable of producing sperm in sufficient and viable quantities. In addition, it can be indicated when the man has some genetic, physical or immunological signal that may interfere with male fertility.
Thus, the spermogram is made to evaluate the functioning of the testicles and the integrity of the epididymis, thus analyzing the quality and quantity of sperm produced by man.
Important recommendations
To perform the examination correctly, a man must:
- Do not have intercourse between 2 and 5 days before collection; Before collection, wash your hands and genitals thoroughly; Some doctors ask for fasting for a more reliable result; Collection should not be done at home to avoid any contamination.
Laboratories do not accept sperm that has not been collected at the clinic itself and it is not recommended that sperm be collected after withdrawal or through a condom, as it may interfere with the test result.
In addition, it is important to note the time at which the collection was carried out so that it is taken into account at the time of the laboratory analysis, since the sperm can survive up to 6 hours in the collection pot for spermogram under appropriate conditions.
Complementary exams
Depending on the result of the spermogram and the man's clinical condition, the urologist may recommend the performance of complementary tests, such as:
- Magnification spermogram, which allows a more accurate analysis of the sperm morphology; DNA fragmentation, which checks the amount of DNA that is released from sperm and remains in the seminal fluid, which can indicate infertility depending on the concentration of DNA; FISH, which is a molecular test performed with the aim of verifying the amount of deficient sperm; Viral load test, which is usually requested for men who have diseases caused by viruses, such as HIV, for example.
In addition to these complementary exams, seminal freezing can be recommended by the doctor if the man will undergo or is undergoing chemotherapy.
