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Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics logoLink to Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
. 2001 Mar;18(3):160–164. doi: 10.1023/A:1009464121194

ANDROLOGY: Influence of Swim-Up Method on the Recovery of Spermatozoa From Different Types of Semen Samples

Satish Kumar Adiga 1, Pratap Kumar 1
PMCID: PMC3455597  PMID: 11411432

Abstract

Purpose: To compare the effectiveness of swim-up method, using different types of semen samples.

Methods: In this retrospective study undertaken in university medical college infertility centre, subfertile couples undergoing Intra Uterine Insemination were selected. A total of 600 semen samples used for the preparation of sperm samples using swim-up method were analyzed. Relative Yield was calculated from the sperm count and motility before and after swim up from each semen sample in six different groups.

Result(s): Statistically significant increase in relative yield was found in oligospermic samples (20.41) followed by teratospermia (16.98). However, relative yield was low in asthenospermic (11.97) and normal (>60 million/ml) samples (11.66).

Conclusion(s): Semen samples with good sperm count resulted in poor recovery after swim up. Swim-up method appears to be effective for oligospermic samples. Modifications like multiple tube swim up, using appropriate incubation time based on the initial semen parameter, will enhance the sperm yield after swim up.

Keywords: IUI, relative yield, sperm, swim up

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