Semen Flashcards
Spermatozoa
5% of semen, semiferous tubules, epididymis
seminal fluid
60-70% of semen, contains fructose and made in seminal vescicles
prostate fluid
20-30% of semen, acidic, proteolytic enzymes, liquefaction
bulbourethral gland fluid
5%, alkaline and thick
Abstinence conditions
> 2-3 days, <7 days
must collect the entire sample for accurate results
Sample storage conditions
sample at >20C, ideally @ 37C. Lab within 1hr of collection
Post-vascetomy
cutting of vas deferens. Testing at monthly intervals ~2 weeks after procedure. Testing continues until 0 sperm are in the semen for 2 consecutive months
Physical exam for fertility
volume should be 2-5mL. < or > is infertility.
color= should be grey/white
clarity= should be translucent. Increased turbidity= from WBC or spermatids
pH = 7.2-8. >8=infection. <8=increased prostate fluid
Viscosity
<30 min after ejaculation. Should liquify after ejaculation by dropping from pipette. If it doesn’t liquify it must be done manually to continue with testing
Concentration
> 40 million / ejaculate
Count
20-160 million=normal
10-20 million=borderline
any less or greater is infertility
motility WHO grading
4=rapid straight-line motility
3=slower than 4 w/ some lateral movement
2=slow forward motility w/ noticeable lateral movement
1= no forward progression
0=no movement
Morphology
shape is critical
Head=oval in shape w/acrosomal cap that allows sperm to enter egg
midpiece=sheath of mitochondria for tail movement
tail=long flagellum used to propel and direct sperm towards egg
WHO morphology criteria
> 30% must have normal morphology
Krugers strict morphology criteria
> 15% must have normal morphology with measurements already testing
