What is the difference between a spermogram and a MAR Test: the main differences?

In case of suspected male infertility or when planning an IVF (in vitro fertilization), a specialist doctor may refer a man for a comprehensive examination of the ejaculate, including a number of specialized tests. One of the most indicative is the spermogram. It allows determining the qualitative and quantitative parameters of spermatozoa, which helps assess their fertilization capacity.

However, in some cases, the spermogram data is not sufficient to establish a diagnosis, and the man is prescribed additional tests, including the MAR-Test (Mixed Agglutination Reaction Test) - or searching for anti-sperm antibodies that may prevent pregnancy.

Differences between a spermogram and a MAR-Test

The analysis of the ejaculate provides the doctor with important information about the patient's reproductive system. Depending on the clinical case, the specialist doctor may limit himself to the spermogram or prescribe complementary examinations.

The spermogram: what does it show?

The spermogram allows determining the following indicators of sperm:

• The number of spermatozoa in 1 ml of ejaculate;
• The motility of spermatozoa and their ability to fertilize;
• Cellular morphology - percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa;
• Maturity of spermatozoa;
• pH, viscosity, liquefaction, color, and other physicochemical parameters of the semen.

Based on the examination results, the doctor can identify the causes of infertility, such as oligozoospermia:

• Oligozoospermia - low spermatozoa count;
• Asthenozoospermia is a reduction in spermatozoa motility;
• Teratzoospermia - low percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa.

MAR-Test: when is it prescribed?

If the doctor suspects immunological infertility, he may recommend a MAR-test . This test allows detecting spermatozoa covered with anti-sperm antibodies. These antibodies:

• hinder the movement of spermatozoa;
• cause them to stick to each other (agglutination)
• reduce the probability of successful fertilization.

The MAR-test therefore complements the spermogram and allows excluding the immunological factor of infertility.

Where can I take the tests?

You can take a spermogram and a MAR-Test at the clinic “Natuvitro”. Experienced gynecologists and andrologists will help you interpret the results and will offer effective methods to overcome male infertility. In cases where the sperm parameters do not allow for natural conception, an IVF with sperm donation may be recommended.