What Does Occasional Seminiferous Tubules With Absence Of Spermatogenesis In My Semen Analysis Mean?

Hello, The report of your semen analysis shows that some tubules aren’t making sperm, but it doesn’t confirm infertility or permanent damage yet. It is treatable. Don’t panic. If the lab sees occasional seminiferous tubules in the semen sample, that means some testicular tissue fragments (likely due to mild trauma or damage to the lining of the seminiferous tubules) got into the ejaculate. The phrase “absence of spermatogenesis” means that in those tissue fragments they looked at, they did not see active sperm production happening in those particular tubules. This report from the lab does not necessarily mean you don’t produce sperm at all, but it can raise concern that some areas of your testes may not be functioning normally. There may be many causes; some may be known, like testicular trauma or infection (orchitis), varicocele, previous surgery, injury, or torsion. Sometimes, it can be due to hormonal problems (low FSH/LH/testosterone). Genetic conditions may be responsible. You are advised to get clinically examined by a Urologist and get all required tests done. Bring your semen analysis report and explain any symptoms, like low libido, testicular pain, etc. Do not hide anything from him. Semen analysis is just a screening test; you’ll need more tests to really understand your fertility and testicular health. After evaluation, the urologist will tell you to repeat semen analysis (to see sperm count, motility, and morphology) and also get hormone tests (FSH, LH, testosterone, and prolactin) done. The treating doctor will tell you to do a scrotal ultrasound (to check for varicocele, damage, or atrophy). Sometimes, a testicular biopsy is needed. Get all the said tests completed. Lower testosterone and poor sperm quality is connected to obesity, so maintain a healthy weight. Do regular walking and exercises. Lean protein meat, whole grains, fruits, veggies and berries will provide a balanced, fertility-friendly diet. Stay away from trans fat, excess sugar and processed meat, while maintaining an active lifestyle. Keep away from an like of addictions like alcohol or smoking. Manage stress; avoid using laptops on your laps. Do not wear tight underwear and avoid sauna baths. Maintain strict diet control and switch to a healthy diet; your sperm count will improve. Treatment will be to improve sperm count, like ashwagandha, which increases testosterone. You can take a multivitamin once daily. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician