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Test to determine sperm viability

The sperm viability test is a diagnostic test that detects the percentage of viable and non-viable sperm.

The test is performed both independently and in combination with the spermogram test. Comprehensive diagnostics provides the doctor with a more detailed result for making a diagnosis, because the examination and the test complement each other, not interchange.

Indications for the test

inability to conceive naturally for 1 year or more.A test to determine sperm viability will help determine the likelihood of a male factor being the cause of infertility;
a test to determine sperm viability is recommended if it has been previously determined by a spermogram test that more than 60% of sperm are non-motile;
to monitor treatment, evaluate the effectiveness of treatment, and, if necessary, adjust it;
after surgical interventions of the genitourinary system.The test for determining sperm viability can be prescribed by a doctor for a comprehensive diagnosis;
in case of suspected or diagnosed infectious or inflammatory diseases of the genitourinary system. Inflammatory processes can affect sperm motility, viability, quality and quantity;
in preparation for IVF and ICSI fertilization, to assess the quality of sperm, which will be further used by embryologists for treatment with assisted reproductive technologies.

Factors that can affect sperm motility:

Inflammatory and infectious diseases. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other infections can cause inflammation in the organs of the genitourinary system. Inflammation interferes with the proper formation of sperm, or reduces the quality of sperm, which can be manifested in a reduced number of germ cells, irregular shape, viability, low motility, or no motility at all.
Lifestyle. Bad habits, such as smoking or drinking alcohol, have an extremely strong impact on the process of spermatogenesis, i.e. the formation of new sperm. Insufficient sleep, as well as chronic fatigue and stress, have an equally significant impact on spermatogenesis.
Nutrition. The foods we include in our daily diet provide us with energy and nutrients for development and recovery. An unbalanced diet, insufficient amounts of vitamins, essential amino acids and trace elements (vitamins C, E and trace elements zinc and selenium are especially important) leads to a decrease in sperm quality and, accordingly, fertility in general.
Physical activity. Lack of physical activity, or excessive or improper exercise, negatively affects the process of sperm formation. Regular, moderate physical activity improves blood circulation and reduces stress, which has a positive effect on spermatogenesis.
Harmful factors. Professional activities involve contact with heavy metals (mercury, lead), toxic substances, and pesticides. It's also important to know and understand that frequent overheating, such as visiting a sauna or bathhouse, negatively affects the formation of normal sperm.
Genetics. Some male patients may have congenital or lifelong genetic changes that affect sperm quality and the ability to become a father naturally.

To identify the causes of fertility disorders and sperm viability, please contact the specialists of the IVMED clinic. They will help you choose the right research method.

Advantages of the sperm viability test

The sperm viability test demonstrates the percentage of viable sperm, which is a critical indicator for couples who are offered treatment using assisted reproductive technologies.

The test is especially important for confirming the possibility of a natural pregnancy.

If you have any questions, you can get answers during a consultation at the IVMED clinic.

Preparation and/or course of the procedure

The sperm viability test is performed as soon as possible after the sperm is received for the test.

It is important not to smoke, drink alcohol, overcool and avoid exposure to high temperatures (do not visit a bathhouse or sauna.)
The IVMED clinic specialist will provide you with more detailed conditions for the test during the consultation.

The sperm viability test is performed by staining samples with eosin-nigrosin.

The first component of the test is eosin, a substance that is allowed to pass through the cell membrane of non-viable sperm, which causes the sperm to turn red. Viable sperm do not allow the eosin dye to enter the cells. The membrane of viable sperm is a kind of barrier. Therefore, viable sperm remain colorless, which makes it possible to clearly distinguish between the two states of sperm (viable or non-viable).

The second component of the test is the nigrosine dye, which provides a dark background and increases the accuracy of sperm viability assessment.

After applying the dyes, the specialists of the IVMED embryology department count the sperm count. For an accurate count, the test is performed using a light microscope, using a magnification of 400 to 600 times.

They evaluate 100 to 200 sperm and perform calculations.

The presence of a large number of viable but not motile sperm may indicate a violation of the flagellum.

Features and interesting facts

Interesting fact!

Sperm are motile sex gametes that have a head, a neck, and a tail called a flagellum. By bending, the flagellum enables the sperm to move.

As a result of the maturation process, four mature sperm cells can be formed from one primary sperm cell in a man, and only one mature egg cell can be formed from one cell in the primary follicle in a woman.

For the proper development of male germ cells, the optimal temperature is 35℃.
The formation of mature sperm takes from 72 to 75 days, depending on the characteristics of the organism.

Did you know that the meeting between an egg and a sperm during natural conception is possible due to rheotaxis, which is the ability of sperm to move against the flow. 2-3 mm/min is the speed of sperm movement. Their speed can vary and depends on the favorable environment.

About 200 sperm reach the fertilization site, which requires a lot of energy and a flagellum to move.

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