Get to Know How Sperm is Screened

 Sperm donation screening is a multistep process that helps to ensure the quality and health of sperm. The goal of sperm screening is to provide recipients with the healthiest sperm possible as they begin their journey to parenthood. Here’s a look at what goes into the screening of sperm:

Initial Assessment

To start the process, potential donors will typically complete a questionnaire that asks about their personal medical history and that of their family. It will also ask about various aspects of their lifestyle and their social habits. The questionnaire will likely include the following, depending on the sperm bank:

• Past and present medical conditions: this can include surgery and allergies
• History of genetic disorders: identifies inherited genetic conditions that could be transmitted to offspring.
• History of infectious diseases: STIs, HIV, hepatitis, etc.
• Medication history and current prescriptions, if any
• Frequency of sexual partners

In addition, the initial assessment will include a semen analysis that looks at semen volume, sperm morphology, which is the shape of the sperm, sperm concentration and motility, and the results of infectious disease testing. A genetic screening is also done to ensure there are no conditions of concern. 

Physical Examination

In addition to assessing the quality of sperm, the donor himself will be examined to ensure overall health. This physical examination will check for signs of abnormalities or disease. Vital signs and physical measurements will also be taken at this time. Blood and urine samples will be collected for testing to screen for infectious diseases including Hepatitis B and C, STIs, and HIV. Tests may also be conducted to screen for genetic conditions and carrier status for certain inherited diseases.

Semen Analysis

A laboratory test examines the semen sample to evaluate its quality and quantity as well as its characteristics. Key aspects of semen analysis include:

• Semen Volume. The amount of fluid produced during ejaculation. A minimum of 2 mL is typically acceptable for donation.
• Liquefaction Time. This determines how long it takes the semen to go from a thick gel to a liquid state.
• Sperm Count: A healthy sperm count is considered to be 15 million to 200 million sperm per milliliter of semen and is a key factor in determining donor suitability.
• Sperm Morphology: This is not as critical as motility and count, but the size and shape of sperm cells can affect their ability to fertilize.
• Sperm Motility. Assesses the percentage of sperm that are able to move in a normal forward movement.
• PH. The acidity or alkalinity of the semen sample.
• Sperm Vitality. Percentage of live sperm in the sample.

Sometimes a second semen sample analysis will be performed to ensure quality and health. Testing for active infections should be done at 6 month intervals.

Sperm screening is important when it comes to donation. The goal of sperm banks is to provide individuals and couples with healthy sperm to begin growing their family.