Evaluating sperm parameters is essential during a fertility assessment. To ensure accurate and reliable results, please follow these instructions before the test. Whether the sample is collected at home or in our laboratory it is important to:

Abstain from sexual activities for 2-7 days before the exam.
Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water the day before.
Urinate a few minutes before providing the sample.
Wash your hands and the tip of the penis with soapy water then rinse thoroughly with clean water
Collect the entire semen sample in the provided container through masturbation only (sexual intercourse is not permitted)
Close the container carefully while strictly respecting hygiene measures (do not touch the inner surface of the lid)
For home collection only: bring the sample to the laboratory within a maximum of 30 minutes after collection along with the physician’s prescription and keep the sample at body temperature (for example against the elastic of your underwear)

Note: in case of difficulty collecting the sample a condom without spermicide may be used (please seek advice from a pharmacy)

You will be given an information questionnaire prior to collection to identify any potential risk factors that could affect sperm quality.

Semen analysis to WHO

The semen analysis is part of the first-line workup prescribed for infertility. The aim is to provide an overall view of the quality of sperm production by the testicles. Various parameters are studied: volume, pH, viscosity, count, motility, vitality, presence of specific antibodies to sperm and sperm morphology. World Health Organization (WHO) standards are our reference values. They are presented in the table below.

Sperm parameters are highly variable within individuals. For this reason, several tests may be necessary before average sperm characteristics can be determined. As a spermatogenesis cycle (sperm production by the testicles) lasts an average of 3 months, a new analysis may be recommended after this time if the initial results are not satisfactory.

This test is performed directly in our laboratory. The turnaround time for results is approximately 5 working days.

TMS: the 24-hour sperm migration and survival test

During sexual intercourse, sperm travel through the cervix toward the uterus. The cervix produces cervical mucus that changes consistency throughout the menstrual cycle. Around ovulation, this mucus becomes more fluid, making it easier for sperm to move. Cervical mucus plays a crucial role by acting as a filter—allowing only mobile sperm to pass while blocking immobile sperm. This process helps maintain the quality and motility of sperm that reach the uterus and fallopian tubes.

In the laboratory, the TMS simulates the role of cervical mucus and sperm migration by using solutions of varying densities. After 24 hours, sperm motility and survival are reassessed. This test provides valuable information about the sperm’s ability to move and survive, which directly relates to their potential to fertilize an oocyte successfully.

Results from the TMS guide treatment decisions. Depending on the findings, intrauterine insemination (IUI), conventional IVF, or ICSI may be recommended.

This test is performed directly in our laboratory. The turnaround time for results is approximately 5 working days.

Seminal biochemistry (Assessment of prostate, seminal vesicle and epididymal markers).

Seminal biochemistry refers to the study of the chemical components present in semen, the biological fluid produced by the male reproductive organs. Semen contains a variety of biochemical substances that play an important role in reproduction and fertility. Here are some explanations of the main components of seminal biochemistry:

Fructose: a simple sugar found in semen. It is a biochemical marker of the seminal vesicles, which are glands close to the prostate. Fructose supplies energy to spermatozoa and helps them maintain their mobility. In the case of abnormalities such as agenesis of the seminal vesicles, the dosage of this marker is reduced.
Zinc is essential for sperm production and plays a vital role in sperm maturation and the regulation of spermatogenesis. It also supports sperm motility, a key factor for fertility. Additionally, zinc has antioxidant properties that help protect sperm from oxidative damage, preserving their integrity and function.
Neutral alphaglucosidase: measured to diagnose potential epididymal obstruction or inflammation, which may be the cause of obstructive azoospermia. Neutral alpha glucosidase is an epididymal marker.

This test is performed by an external partner laboratory. The turnaround time for results is approximately 10 working days.

Semen culture (Bacteriological analysis)

This test assesses the presence or absence of bacteria in semen. Note that an infection can occur without symptoms. The presence of an infection can also provoke an inflammatory reaction in the genital tract that is deleterious to spermatozoa. Depending on the bacteria identified and its concentration, the doctor may or may not prescribe a suitable course of antibiotics.

As part of an intrauterine insemination (IUI) or IVF procedure, a sperm culture check is requested every 6 months.

This test is performed by an external partner laboratory. The turnaround time for results is approximately 5 working days.

Sperm DNA fragmentation

This involves measuring the fragmentation of DNA strands present in the nucleus of spermatozoa.

Sperm DNA fragmentation can have a negative impact on male fertility and can be associated with a variety of reproductive problems, such as reduced sperm quality, reduced sperm motility, in vitro fertilization (IVF) failures and recurrent miscarriages.

The causes of sperm DNA fragmentation can be multiple and include:

Oxidative stress : Exposure to high levels of oxidative stress, caused by free radicals and reactive oxygen species, can damage sperm DNA and lead to fragmentation.
Advanced age : Older men tend to have increased sperm DNA fragmentation. This may be due to a progressive accumulation of DNA lesions over time.
Environmental factors : Environmental factors such as exposure to toxic chemicals, ionizing radiation, excessive heat, smoking and alcohol consumption can also contribute to sperm DNA fragmentation.
Infections : Genital infections, such as Chlamydia or Mycoplasma, can cause inflammation and increased oxidative stress, which can damage sperm DNA.

This test is performed by an external partner laboratory. The turnaround time for results may take up to 15 working days.

FISH (Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization) on Sperm

The FISH test is a genetic analysis that examines specific chromosomes in sperm. It can detect chromosomal abnormalities that may impact male fertility, increase the risk of miscarriage, or affect the success of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) such as IVF and ICSI. A high rate of chromosomal abnormalities may explain difficulties conceiving and help guide appropriate treatment choices, such as IVF with preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) or genetic counselling.

FISH testing may be recommended in cases of

Recurrent miscarriages
IVF or ICSI failures
Unexplained male infertility
Advanced paternal age
History of genetic abnormalities

The test typically targets chromosomes :

13, 18, 21 (associated with trisomies)
and the sex chromosomes X and Y

This test is performed by an external partner laboratory. The turnaround time for results may vary between 10 and 15 working days.

Post-vasectomy semen analysis

A post-vasectomy semen analysis is performed to check the effectiveness of the procedure and to confirm the absence of sperm in the ejaculate. Here are the key points to know about this test:

When to perform a post-vasectomy semen analysis : A post-vasectomy semen analysis is usually carried out a few months after the procedure to allow enough time for all remaining sperm in the reproductive system to be cleared. The first follow-up test is typically performed around three months after the vasectomy.
Absence of sperm: The main goal of the post-vasectomy semen analysis is to verify that no sperm are present in the ejaculate. In a successful vasectomy, the vas deferens are cut or blocked, preventing sperm from entering the seminal fluid. As a result, the ejaculated semen should contain no sperm.

This test is performed directly in our laboratory. The turnaround time for results is approximately 5 working days.

MALE HORMONE TESTS

The diagnosis of male infertility is based on a series of medical examinations prescribed by our team of specialized gynecologists or urologists and performed by medical laboratories. These tests help identify potential causes and guide appropriate treatments.

A male hormone test is often performed as part of an infertility work-up to assess hormonal factors that may be contributing to fertility problems in men. Here are the main hormonal parameters usually included in a male hormone test:

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a key role in regulating spermatogenesis (sperm production). Elevated FSH levels may indicate testicular dysfunction affecting sperm production.
Luteinizing hormone (LH): LH, also produced by the pituitary gland, stimulates testosterone production by the Leydig cells in the testes. Abnormal LH levels may indicate problems with testosterone production or regulation.
Testosterone : Testosterone is the main male sex hormone and plays an essential role in sperm production and sexual function. Low testosterone levels can be associated with fertility problems.
Growth hormone (GH) : GH, also known as somatotropin, can influence testosterone production and Leydig cell function. Abnormal GH levels can affect male fertility.
Prolactin : Prolactin is a hormone that plays a role in milk production in women, but is also present in men. High levels of prolactin can lead to reduced testosterone production and fertility problems.
Estradiol : Estradiol is the dominant female sex hormone, but low levels of estradiol are normally present in men. High estradiol levels may indicate hormonal problems such as excessive conversion of testosterone to estradiol.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT : DHT is an active form of testosterone that plays a role in hair growth, the prostate and other tissues. Abnormal levels of DHT can be associated with fertility problems
Inhibin B : Inhibin B is produced by Sertoli cells in the testicles. It plays an essential role in regulating spermatogenesis, the process of sperm production.

TREATMENTS

There are several treatments and approaches to improve sperm quality. Treatment options depend on the underlying cause of poor sperm quality. Here are some of the approaches commonly used:

Lifestyle modification: Certain lifestyle changes can have a positive impact on sperm quality. These include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, reducing stress, avoiding tobacco, alcohol and drugs, eating a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet, and taking nutritional supplements if necessary
Treating underlying health problems : Certain health problems, such as hormonal imbalances, infections, testicular varicose veins (varicocele) or spermatic duct obstructions, can affect sperm quality. Treatment of these problems can improve sperm quality. For example, surgery can be performed to correct varicoceles or spermatic tract obstructions.
Nutritional supplements : Some supplements can help improve sperm quality. Studies have shown that certain antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, selenium and coenzyme Q10 can have beneficial effects on sperm quality by reducing oxidative stress.
Assisted reproduction techniques: If other treatments fail to improve sperm quality sufficiently, assisted reproduction techniques such as artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization (IVF) may be considered. These techniques circumvent sperm quality problems by using laboratory techniques to treat sperm and facilitate conception.
Genetic counseling : In some cases, genetic problems may be responsible for poor sperm quality. Genetic counseling may be recommended to identify genetic factors and discuss treatment options or alternatives, such as sperm donation.

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