The male factor as a possible cause of sterility will be studied mainly by performing a semen analysis. This test consists of analyzing a semen sample to evaluate different parameters and thus find out if there is any alteration that may explain or be the cause of sterility. Basically, the pH, volume, concentration and total number of spermatozoa in the sample are evaluated, as well as their motility and morphology. For assisted reproductive techniques, ideally we will also request an EMR (motile sperm count) to know how many motile sperm are actually recovered after processing the sample.
If the semen analysis is altered, it is recommended to repeat it after at least one month to verify that the alterations are still present and have not appeared only occasionally. There are cases in which, if the alterations are important, it will be necessary to complement the study with more tests such as a semen and urine culture to rule out infection; a sperm fragmentation; a genetic study in case this could be the cause of the male factor, etc.
