Andrology
and Embryology

A complete semen analysis is often the starting point in male fertility testing. It measures certain parameters such as semen volume, the number of sperm, and the progressive motility of sperm. Most importantly, the semen analysis gives the physician a detailed look at the morphology, or shape/appearance of the sperm. Theoretically, the more normal sperm observed, the better the odds for the sperm to fertilize the egg (ova). Some abnormalities in morphology include double heads, double tails, bent or broken necks, tiny heads, amorphous (“blob”) heads, neck and tail deformities, and immature sperm cells.

Sperm may look normal on the outside, but their DNA must properly combine with the DNA of an egg for pregnancy to occur and to continue. If the sperm DNA shows a high degree of breakage (“fragmentation”) or if the DNA can’t properly function in one of its critical processes (“decondensation”), then the odds of getting and staying pregnant may be decreased. These tests are not typically offered at other fertility centers, and, if the results are not normal, the chance of delivering a baby via intercourse, IUI, or even standard IVF may be low. Our patients can have these tests performed while under our care, and abnormalities can then be either treated or overcome with great success.