The Sperm: Parameters and Evaluation

Abstract

Sperm abnormalities are a major factor of human infertility. Since 1987, there are several references in different editions of World Health Organization (WHO) manual defining optimal sperm parameters. Over the years, many reproductive specialists have been constantly debating, suggesting and remodeling the frame values in those guidelines. Semen parameters have a leading role both in natural conception and assisted reproduction technologies (ART) outcomes. Deviations expressed in lower sperm count, impaired motility, abnormal morphology, and high percentage of sperm DNA fragmentation are linked to reduced chances to achieve pregnancy. In cases with low sperm count, severe oligoasthenozoospermia (OA) or azoospermia, karyotyping or evaluation with sperm aneuploidy test (SAT) could be an option and genetic counseling will be necessary if there is an obvious deviation or aberration (e.g., translocation, aneuploidy, etc.). Taking care of lifestyle factors as body mass index (BMI), diets, alcohol intake, smoking, using some additional nutrition and vitamin supplements might affect sperm parameters and contribute to the chances of a couple to conceive.

Seminal fructose and citric acid concentrations relative to sperm parameters among men for fertility evaluation in Yaoundé, Cameroon

“…Practically, this implies that further studies should take into consideration bacteriological testing of seminal fluid samples, manipulation of samples and equipment. Also, to ascertain male fertility, at least two to three sperm samples within a 3-month period should be analyzed [5,12]. Fructose and citric acid levels are known to be affected by other factors such as nutrition, and especially body mass index as indicated in the study conducted in 2017 [11,13].…”

Ejaculatory Abstinence Affects the Sperm Quality in Normozoospermic Men—How Does the Seminal Bacteriome Respond?

“…Over the years many andrologists have been continually assessing and remodeling the cut-off values for different semen quality parameters in reference to male fertility. All of these culminate in general recommendations summarized in the manual for the examination and processing of human semen issued by the World Health Organization (WHO), which defines optimal sperm parameters with reference to pregnancy outcomes [ 4 , 5 ].…”

Sperm Gone Smart: A Portable Device (iSperm®) to Assess Semen Concentration and Motility in Dogs

“…This practice consists of both a macroscopic and microscopic evaluation of the ejaculate and is important when investigating conditions such as subfertility and infertility [ 1 ]. Specifically, the assessment of concentration, motility, and morphology allows for an estimation of the semen quality, which is related to success in both natural conception and artificial insemination [ 2 ]. The evaluation of semen motility can be performed subjectively under light microscope, but it requires training and is inherently subject to observer bias [ 3 ].…”