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. 2022 Feb 2;79:10129. doi: 10.3389/bjbs.2021.10129

TABLE 1.

Key minimal health questions to consider for semen analysis with fertility investigations.

Question Justification
Have you had any illnesses within the past 6 months? To ascertain if any febrile illnesses or other infections that may contribute to sperm quality and findings (38).
How often do you ejaculate through either sexual intercourse or masturbation? Discussed within text.
Have you had any surgery? Some abdominal surgery may cause disruption or the reproductive tract. At the very least, the surgery may have been due to a GU issue.
Have you ever had any cancer treatment? Cancer treatment may include the use of cytotoxic drugs. These can induce severe oligozoospermia, azoospermia or an increase in germ cell populations (35).
Do you take any recreational drugs, smoke or drink alcohol? Several studies document the effects of recreational drugs and alcohol on sperm parameters and round cells (3942). The use of these drugs may also impact sexual and endocrine function.
Have you been diagnosed with any conditions? This may be genetic or otherwise. This is an open question but can be tailored and adapted depending on the service. It is aimed at understanding if there are any issues that may impact fertility or findings in semen.