Understanding Sperm Viability in Male Fertility – Expert Insights from NucleusIVF, Pune
When couples are trying to conceive and things aren’t going as planned, it’s natural to start looking for answers. While female fertility is often the focus, male fertility plays just as important a role. In fact, male factors are responsible in nearly half of all infertility cases.
One important test that can help uncover hidden fertility issues in men is the HSA test — also known as the Hypo-osmotic Swelling Assay. At NucleusIVF in Pune, Dr. Pritam Prakash Sulakhe and his team use this test to check the health and viability of sperm, which is crucial when planning fertility treatments like IUI or IVF.
🧪 So, What Exactly Is the HSA Test?
The HSA test is used to check whether sperm are alive and capable of fertilizing an egg — even if they’re not moving.
It works by placing the sperm in a special liquid that causes live sperm to swell and curl their tails, which means their membranes are healthy. If the sperm don’t react, they’re most likely not viable.
Think of it this way: sometimes sperm look normal under a microscope but may not be functionally active. The HSA test tells us whether they’re actually alive and capable of doing their job.
🧫 Why Is It Done?
Not all fertility issues can be picked up by a standard semen analysis. The HSA test gives doctors deeper insight, especially when:
- Sperm are present but show little or no movement
- There’s a history of unexplained infertility
- You’re planning IVF or ICSI treatments
- You’re using frozen sperm samples
- Other sperm tests give unclear results
By confirming which sperm are alive, doctors can choose the best possible sperm for fertilization — something that’s especially important during ICSI procedures.
🔍 What Happens During the HSA Test?
The process is quick and simple. Here’s a breakdown:
- A semen sample is collected.
- It’s mixed with a hypo-osmotic solution.
- Live sperm absorb the solution, swell, and curl their tails.
- Dead sperm show no reaction.
- The percentage of viable sperm is calculated under a microscope.
That’s it — no pain, no invasive steps. Just a closer look at how healthy your sperm really are.
✅ What Do the Results Mean?
Once the test is complete, your doctor will evaluate how many sperm responded.
- A high percentage of curled tails means good sperm viability.
- Low or no response may indicate problems with sperm membrane function.
- Usually, having 60% or more viable sperm is considered a good sign.
These results help fertility specialists choose the right treatment or even guide you toward lifestyle or dietary changes to improve your chances naturally.
👨⚕️ Expert Advice from Dr. Pritam Prakash Sulakhe
“At NucleusIVF, we use the HSA test to dig deeper when standard tests don’t give us the full picture. Especially in IVF or ICSI cases, knowing which sperm are actually alive is incredibly important. This helps us make better decisions and increases the chances of a successful pregnancy.”
— Dr. Pritam Prakash Sulakhe, Fertility Specialist, NucleusIVF, Pune
💬 Common Questions About the HSA Test
No, it’s a lab test done on a semen sample — completely non-invasive.
Results are usually available within a day or two.
Yes. By helping identify the best live sperm, the HSA test can significantly improve outcomes in these treatments.
📍 Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re on a fertility journey and feel like you’ve hit a wall, the HSA test might be the missing link. At NucleusIVF in Pune, we combine advanced testing with personalized care to help you get the answers — and the support — you need.
📞 Book a consultation with Dr. Pritam Prakash Sulakhe today and find out how the HSA test can help you move forward with confidence.
👉 Visit: www.nucleusivf.com
📍 Location: Nucleus IVF Centre, 315-316-317, The Address Commercia, Flyover, nr. Hinjewadi, Wakad, Pune, Maharashtra 411057
📞 Book a Consultation: +91-81491 43338
Dr. Pritam Prakash Sulakhe
