Can semen parameters predict pregnancy outcomes?

Semen analysis is an integral component of the evaluation and management of men with infertility. Although it is important for patient counseling and clinical decision making, a conventional semen analysis cannot reliably predict the chance of pregnancy or differentiate fertile vs. infertile men (except in the most extreme cases). Advanced, nonstandard sperm functional tests may provide additional discriminatory and prognostic power; however, further research is needed to determine how to best incorporate these tests into modern clinical practice. Therefore, the primary applications of a conventional semen analysis should be to judge the severity of infertility, es-timate the effects of future therapy, and measure the response to current therapy. (Fertil Sterile 2023;120:709-14. (c) 2023 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.)

Automated summary

Semen analysis plays an important role in the evaluation and management of infertility in men. Conventional semen analysis cannot reliably predict the chance of pregnancy or differentiate fertile vs. infertile men, and further research is needed to determine how to incorporate advanced, nonstandard sperm functional tests into clinical practice. Therefore, the primary applications of semen analysis are to assess the severity of infertility, estimate the effects of future therapy, and measure the response to current therapy.