ASSESSMENT OF SEMEN ANALYSIS PARAMETERS IN SUSPECTED INFERTILE PATIENTS IN PESHAWAR

Abstract

Background & Objective:

Male infertility is a growing public health concern, often linked to abnormalities in semen parameters such as motility, morphology, and count. Despite normal sperm concentration, functional defects may impair fertility. This study aimed to assess semen analysis parameters among suspected infertile male patients in Peshawar to identify the prevalence of abnormal findings and possible underlying causes.

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Complex Medical Laboratory, Hayatabad, Peshawar, from March to July 2025. A total of 116 semen samples were collected through convenient sampling from males aged 18–50 years who had abstained from ejaculation for 2–7 days. Semen samples were examined for liquefaction, motility, morphology, sperm count, pus cells, red blood cells (RBCs), and pH according to WHO criteria. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 with descriptive statistics.

Results:

Among participants, 42.2% were aged 18–28 years, 38.8% aged 29–38 years, and 19% aged 39–48 years. Normal liquefaction was observed in 74.1% of samples, while 25.9% showed delayed liquefaction. Normal motility was found in 56%, and 44% had reduced motility. Morphological abnormalities were present in 71.6% of cases, and 91.4% showed elevated pus cell counts, indicating possible genital tract infections. RBCs were found in 24.1% of samples, suggesting hematospermia. Most participants (91.4%) had normal sperm counts, and semen pH was normal in 98.3% of samples.

Conclusion:

Despite normal sperm counts, a high prevalence of abnormal motility and morphology was observed, suggesting that functional sperm defects and infections contribute significantly to male infertility in Peshawar. Routine comprehensive semen analysis, including infection screening, is essential for accurate diagnosis and management.