Improvement in overall seminal quality by separate collection of first sample of ejaculate

Abstract

We aim to assess the improvement of sperm quality observed in the first ejaculate fraction compared to the second ejaculate fraction and total ejaculate. Usually, the ejaculate to be used for ART is collected in just one pot, producing a sustained contact between sperm and seminal liquid that can compromise chromatine stability. After a detailed explanations to the patients, semen samples were collected in two separate fractions in order to compare overall sperm quality in FEF. 30 patients were included in the study. Their semen sample was collected in two separate fractions, after 2 to 5 days of sexual abstinence, and analyzed within an hour. In both fractions and the TEF, classic seminal parameters and Zinc, Citric Acid and Fructose content were assessed. DNA fragmentation test was performed using the Sperm Chromatin Decondensation assay with Halosperm kit. Compared to TEF and SEF, we observed in FEF a disminution of volume, higher sperm concentration, higher motility rates, better morphology according to Kruger criteria and lower DNA fragmentation (DIF), all statistically significant.Tabled 1FEFSEFTEFVolume (ml)0,631,53p=0,02Motility (a+b%)48,531,940,3p=0,01Sperm count89,54065p=0,01Morphology4,93,44,5p=0,01DFI1732,324,7p=0,01Chart 1: Parameters assessed in FEF, SEF and TEF. Open table in a new tab Chart 1: Parameters assessed in FEF, SEF and TEF. Collection of semen sample in two separate fractions offers the possibility to achieve a improved sperm population, which may act synergically for the selection of high quality spermatozoa with further techniques to be applied in later stages, such as DL-DGc and MACS prior to ICSI.