The male partner is important in the assessment of the infertile couple. Here at Pacific Northwest Fertility and IVF Specialists, we offer a full range of semen testing as well as the preparation of semen for insemination. Below are the tests and preparations methods we offer at our Laboratory.

Seminal Fluid Analysis (SA)

A seminal fluid analysis is one of the first diagnostic assays in the assessment of male fertility potential. It includes determination of sperm concentration (millions/ml), percent motility, speed and forward progression of motile sperm, morphological analysis of normal vs abnormal sperm (Krueger Strict) or percent of morphologically normal sperm including identification and percent of abnormal forms (WHO or World Health Organization). White blood cells and non-tailed forms (immature sperm) are identified with differential staining, and seminal pH, presence or absence of agglutination, and viscosity are noted.

Sperm Penetration Assay (SPA)

The sperm penetration assay can assess the ability of the male to potentially penetrate and activate an egg. The patient’s sperm is exposed to treated hamster eggs after a period of cold capacitation, and the capacitation index or average number of sperm penetrating each egg is reported. It can be an additional test when the seminal fluid analysis is normal.

Immunobead Test (IMB)

This assay is performed on blood sera, seminal fluids, or sperm and may detect sperm directed antibodies the could interfere with sperm transport or sperm-egg fusion. IgA and IgG antibodies are measured. IgM antibodies are not present in the reproductive tract. This test is useful in cases of idiopathic infertility, as well as vasecectomy reversal or trauma/surgery in the groin area in the male partner.

Fructose Assay (FS)

This is a test for the presence of fructose in the semen. Fructose is produced by the seminal vesicles and normally found in semen. The test is performed on azoospermic patients with no medical history that would indicate the absence of sperm ie: prior chemotherapy or vasectomy. Absence of fructose may indicate obstruction of an ejaculatory duct or absence of the seminal vesicles.

Sperm Separation For Intrauterine Insemination (Density Gradient)

This procedure isolates motile sperm from immotile sperm and other components in the seminal plasma , including most bacteria and white blood cells. It also may be used to prepare retrograde ejaculated sperm for intrauterine insemination.

Sperm Cryopreservation (SC)

Sperm cryopreservation (freezing) may be done for several reasons: cancer patients preparing to undergo radiation or chemotherapy that potentially may destroy sperm production, patients who are electing to have a vasectomy but wish to have sperm stored, and patients who are unavailable and wish to store sperm for their partner’s use.

Cryostorage of Anonymous Donor Sperm

Donor sperm cryopreserved at another facility may be brought in and stored at Pacific North West Fertility with appropriate documentation of testing and consent to storage signed by the patient. Known Donor sperm may also be frozen and stored after appropriate disease testing, consents, and quarantine.

To learn more about our services you contact us at info@pnwfertility.com or leave us a message on our contact us page.