Effects of density gradient sperm preparation on semen parameters and acrosomal status

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to observe changes in sperm parameters after density gradient sperm preparation. These data will help to decide upon preparation technique and to predict the outcome of semen parameters after using this technique. Methods: A total of 1402 men who were screened for infertility at the Florence Nightingale Hospital in vitro fertilization clinic between April 2011 and October 2016 were analyzed. Semen analysis was performed according to World Health Organization 2010 guidelines before and after semen preparation. Samples with <1 mil/mL sperm concentration were prepared using the density gradient centrifugation technique and the semen parameters (sperm concentration, total motility, progressive motility, normal morphology rate, and normal acrosomal status rate) were analyzed. Results: Although sperm concentration was reduced, the total motility, progressive motility, and normal morphology rate were higher after density gradient semen preparation. Sperm concentration decreased by 37.49% after semen preparation (p=0.01). Total motility rate increased significantly, by 21.47% (66.1% before and 87.57% after semen preparation), progressive motility rate increased by 28.12% (11.45% before and 39.57% after semen preparation), normal morphology rate increased by 5% (3% before and 8% after semen preparation), and normal acrosomal status rate increased by 14% (62% before and 76%) after semen preparation (p<0.01). Discussion and Conclusion: According to the results of this study, the sperm parameters of total motility, progressive sperm motility, normal morphology, and normal acrosomal status rate increased, but sperm concentration decreased after density gradient sperm preparation. These data will help the specialist to decide upon the sperm preparation technique to be used in assisted reproduction and to predict the outcome of semen parameters after using this technique.