OBJECTIVES: This is a descriptive prospective study of semen analysis in 113 men who were candidates for vasectomy as an option for fertility control after a recent event of fertility. METHODS: Each subject provided a semen sample for the analysis of volume, pH, spermatozoid concentration, mobility, and morphology. The results were compared with the reference values established by WHO. RESULTS: Different from what was expected, a great proportion of these fertile subjects, 54.9%, showed at least one altered parameter in comparison to minimal values established by WHO. Generally, median values for the whole group were normal: volume 2.4 ml, spermatozoid concentration measured in Makler and Neubauer chambers 89 and 91 millions/ml, respectively; sperm mobility (A + B) 56%; vitality 78%; and normal morphology 79%. CONCLUSIONS: In this group of fertile subjects we found a high probability to have altered semen parameters, which argues questions the real value and significance of sperm analysis in the diagnosis of a subfertile patient.
OBJECTIVES: This is a descriptive prospective study of semen analysis in 113 men who were candidates for vasectomy as an option for fertility control after a recent event of fertility. METHODS: Each subject provided a semen sample for the analysis of volume, pH, spermatozoid concentration, mobility, and morphology. The results were compared with the reference values established by WHO. RESULTS: Different from what was expected, a great proportion of these fertile subjects, 54.9%, showed at least one altered parameter in comparison to minimal values established by WHO. Generally, median values for the whole group were normal: volume 2.4 ml, spermatozoid concentration measured in Makler and Neubauer chambers 89 and 91 millions/ml, respectively; sperm mobility (A + B) 56%; vitality 78%; and normal morphology 79%. CONCLUSIONS: In this group of fertile subjects we found a high probability to have altered semen parameters, which argues questions the real value and significance of sperm analysis in the diagnosis of a subfertile patient.