A doctor may request a semen analysis after a man undergoes a vasectomy or a vasectomy reversal, or if a couple has been having unprotected sex for six to 12 months, yet hasn’t been able to conceive a child. When a semen analysis is performed after a vasectomy, it is for the purpose of confirming that there is no sperm present in the semen. After a vasectomy reversal, a semen analysis is used to evaluate the success of the procedure.

You can hear more about semen analysis by watching this video. It explains that the lab technician will check the semen sample for semen volume, semen thickness, sperm count, sperm motility, and sperm morphology. All of these factors affect fertility.

If you and your partner haven’t been able to conceive a child because of a prior vasectomy, make an appointment to see Dr. Green at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal. Call (941) 894-6428.

You may already know that the body produces antibodies to combat pathogens like viruses and bacteria. These antibodies help keep you healthy. However, sometimes the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own cells such as a man’s sperm cells. Anti-sperm antibodies are one cause of male infertility. The presence of these antibodies does not automatically mean that you cannot father a child, however. Consider talking to a male infertility specialist about your options.

Understanding Anti-Sperm Antibodies

As sperm cells develop, antigens appear on the outer membranes. These antigens are proteins and it is in response to the detection of these proteins that the immune system may manufacture anti-sperm antibodies . Under normal circumstances, the immune system never detects the sperm antigens because sperm does not enter into the bloodstream. The blood/testes barrier, which is comprised of Sertoli cells, prevents the sperm from coming into contact with blood. In some men, the Sertoli cells may become compromised and the barrier may be breached, which allows immunologic stimulation. This can happen due to infection, physical trauma, or chemical-related injury. It’s worth noting that women can also develop anti-sperm antibodies. Why this can happen is not well understood.

Getting Tested

When a couple is experiencing infertility, one of the tests that a doctor may suggest is an anti-sperm antibody test. Women can be tested with a simple blood test. Men must provide a semen sample. Before getting tested, men must refrain from ejaculating for two days, but should not abstain from ejaculating for longer than five days before the test. Men will be given a sterile sample cup to ejaculate into and take to the clinic immediately afterward. The sample should be kept out of direct sunlight and at normal body temperature.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, Dr. Joshua Green takes great pride in helping couples achieve their dreams of parenthood. He is a highly trained surgeon who specializes in performing infertility procedures in Sarasota. When you’re ready to take the next step toward becoming a father, give us a call at (941) 894-6428.

At the Center for Vasectomy Reversal, we are committed to providing men with optimum care in a patient-centric environment. The needs of every patient are put first and guide every decision we make, and every case is treated as an individual. That is why patients come to us from across the country for their vasectomy reversal and infertility procedures.

In addition to the cutting-edge surgical care of Dr. Green, the staff at the clinic provide top-level care to both patients and their families. With the utmost care and professionalism, the staff guides patients and their loved ones through the entire process, from scheduling a consultation to discuss vasectomy reversal through the patient’s recovery. Dr. Green and his entire team are dedicated to doing everything possible to help each patient achieve their goals of starting or growing their family.

If you are considering a vasectomy reversal, call Dr. Green and the Center for Vasectomy Reversal today to find out how we can help you. We welcome patients from all over the world to our center for vasectomy reversals in Sarasota and are here to provide the care you need. To learn more, call (941) 894-6428.

When you’re recovering from your vasectomy reversal , in addition to following your surgeon’s instructions, it is important to make smart food decisions that support your recovery. As with any surgery, it is important to give your body the nutrients it needs to heal so you can get back on your feet faster. Keep these guidelines in mind for your post-surgery diet.

Choose High-Fiber Foods

After surgery, constipation is a frequent problem, thanks to the pain medication you’re likely to be taking. In addition to drinking plenty of water, eat foods with a high fiber content to reduce the risk of constipation. Whole grain breads and cereals, vegetables, and fruits are all good choices that will help you get the right amount of fiber during your recovery. Reducing your intake of foods that increase the risk of constipation, like dairy products and processed foods, can also help.

Pick Lean Proteins

Protein is an important part of recovering from surgery, since it is a building block for tissue repair. Lean protein sources will give you the nutrients you need without the saturated fats that can contribute to constipation. Chicken, fish, turkey and pork are all good choices. If you don’t eat meat, nuts, tofu, and beans will give you the nutrients you need. If your appetite is weak after surgery, consider adding protein powder to smoothies, which may be more appealing than a large meal.

Fill Up on Whole Grains

Whole grains contain nutrients that will give you energy during your surgery recovery, as well as fiber that will reduce constipation. Pick whole grain bread, wheat pasta, and brown rice instead of the white, processed varieties of these foods as you recuperate from your vasectomy reversal.

Dr. Green and his team at the Center for Vasectomy Reversal in Sarasota are available to answer all of your questions about preparing for your surgery and recovering from your vasectomy reversal procedure . Schedule a consultation today by calling (941) 894-6428.