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Which semen parameters have a predictive value for pregnancy in infertile couples?
M A Bielsa1, P Andolz, J M Gris
1Departamento de Obstetrica y Ginecología, Hospital Universitario del Mar, Barcelona, Spain.
Human Reproduction (Oxford, England)
|October 1, 1994
Summary
Semen analysis, including progressive motility and straight line velocity, can predict male fertility. Sperm parameters after capacitation are crucial indicators for successful fertilization in infertile men.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Andrology
- Semen Analysis
Background:
- Male infertility affects a significant number of couples seeking fertility treatment.
- Predictive markers for male fertility are essential for effective infertility management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the predictive value of semen parameters for achieving pregnancy.
- To compare semen parameters between fertile men, men whose partners conceived via intra-uterine insemination (IUI), and men with primary infertility.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 156 couples attending an infertility clinic.
- Semen analysis performed before and after capacitation.
- Comparison of semen parameters across three groups: fertile controls (Group I), couples with IUI pregnancy (Group II), and primary infertility (Group III).
Main Results:
- Progressive motility and straight line velocity were significantly lower in men with primary infertility (Group III) compared to those whose partners conceived via IUI (Group II).
- Acrosome alterations were significantly more frequent in Group III than in Group II.
- Post-capacitation recovery of motile spermatozoa, normal morphology, and acrosome-reacted spermatozoa were significantly decreased in Group III compared to Group II.
Conclusions:
- Semen parameters, particularly progressive motility, straight line velocity, and acrosome integrity, are significantly impaired in men with primary infertility.
- Sperm capacitation recovery parameters are valuable predictors of fertilization potential and can differentiate between fertile and infertile males.