Our specialized andrology laboratory has trained technicians that can perform semen evaluation as part of our fertility screening. We perform evaluation of sperm morphology using strict criteria (Krueger).

If a man has a decreased number of normally shaped sperm on the Krueger strict morphology analysis, he is at risk of fertilization failure or at least low rates of fertilization. An increased number of abnormally shaped sperm with ‘non-strict’ criteria may indicate a fertilization problem. Strict morphology is a useful test to perform with couples that have unexplained infertility, even if the semen analysis and non-strict morphology are otherwise normal.

The strict morphology of the sperm predicts a man’s fertility potential (fertilizing capacity) even in cases where the sperm count, motility and/or regular morphology of the SA are normal. The strict morphology takes a critical look at many individual sperm according to a very strict set of criteria. Only specialized andrology laboratories have trained technicians who can analyze the sperm according to these “strict criteria”. The sperm are stained and examined under oil at 1000X power for normal size and shape of the head, mid piece, tail or for any other abnormalities. Even a minor defect in any category rates the sperm as abnormal. Therefore, relatively few sperm are rated as “normal” or perfect (near-perfect) during the strict morphology test, as compared to the “estimated crude morphology” done during a regular semen analysis (WHO criteria). The strict morphology score is a result that indicates and predicts the sperm’s potential for fertilization. Consult with your specialist about the importance of a proper fertility evaluation.