Relation of Semen pH with Sperm Count & Motility

Dr. Archi Ghanti, Dr. KM Kundavi Shankar, Dr. Yamini Asokan, Dr. Geetha V, Dr. Rashmi GV, Dr. Nithya M Naaram, Hemaniveda KR

Abstract: Introduction: Seminal pH is one of the most important parameters that predict semen quality. The aim of our study was to determine a relation of Semen pH with Sperm Count andmotility in men presenting with subfertility. Methodology: This was a retrospective observational study done at theInstitute of Reproductive Medicine (IRM), Madras Medical Mission Hospital during October 2021- September 2022, for all male patients who came to our OPD for evaluation of subfertility & underwent semen analysis for the 1st time. Our sample size was 306. Out of 306 patients, subjects were classified in 3 groups: Group 1 (pH 7.2-8) had 231 patients (75%), Group 2 (pH<7.2) had 39 patients (13%), & Group 3 (pH>8) had 36 patients (12%). Results & Analysis: Sperm count, total motility, progressive motility & slowly progressive motility were positively associated with pH group 1(pH 7.2-8). Although sperm parameters were suboptimal in both group 2 (pH<7.2)& group 3 (pH>8) compared to group 1 (pH 7.2-8), but total motility & slow progressive motility were relatively better in group 2 (pH<7.2). Conclusion: This study suggested that optimal pH is necessary for normal semen parameters (count, concentration & motility). This study found that semen parameters deteriorate when pH goes below 7.2 & beyond 8, suggesting that pH range of 7.2 ? 8 is where sperm parameters remain within their normal limits.

Keywords: Sperm, Semen pH, sperm count, sperm motility