Patient's question:
I want to ask what items are checked in a routine semen analysis? My partner and I have been married for over three years. Initially, we focused on our careers and didn't have children, always using protection. Now that our careers are more stable, both of us want to have a child. However, after preparing for over a year, we haven't seen any results. Recently, when we went to the hospital for a check-up, the doctor said it's very likely to be my issue and suggested I get a semen analysis. I want to ask what items are checked in a routine semen analysis?Doctor's answer:
1. Normal reference value for semen volume: 2-5ml. If ejaculation has not occurred for several days and the semen volume is less than 1.5ml, it is abnormal, indicating a problem with the seminal vesicles or prostate. If the semen volume decreases to a few drops or cannot be expelled, it is called azoospermia, seen in specific infections of the reproductive system, such as tuberculosis, gonorrhea, and non-specific inflammation. If the semen volume is excessive (more than 8ml per ejaculation), the sperm becomes diluted and correspondingly reduced, affecting fertility.2. Normal reference value for color: Greyish-white or creamy white; it may appear pale yellow in cases of infrequent ejaculation. Yellow or brown purulent semen: seen in seminal vesiculitis or prostatitis. Fresh red or dark red bloody semen: seen in reproductive system inflammation, tuberculosis, and tumors.