Analysis of diurnal variability of sperm donors’ semen parameters

Abstract

Introduction. Diurnal variability of sperm parameters is controversial and should be considered during medical evaluation and solicitation of sperm donors.
 Aim: to evaluate diurnal variability of sperm parameters of anonymous sperm donors in reproductive medicine center.
 Materials and methods. Records of 1253 semen samples analysis of 39 sperm donors (mean age 27.1 ± 3.9 years) were retrospectively studied in reproductive medicine center in Saint Petersburg. Semen analysis was performed according to WHO 2010 recommendations. Diurnal variations of semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm number, progressive motility and number of progressively motile sperm were analyzed.
 Results. Mean ejaculate volume, sperm total number and number of progressively motile sperm were higher after 3 p.m. (t = 5.63, p < 0.0001; t = 3.66, p = 0.0003 and t = 1.76, p = 0.078, respectively), while sperm concentration and percent of progressively motile sperm was lower (t = 2.03, p = 0.043 and t = 4.63, p = 0.0003, respectively).The lowest and the highest mean sperm numbers were registered in time slots between 12 a.m.–1 p.m. and 4 p.m.–5 p.m., respectively.
 Conclusions. The study suggests the diurnal variability of sperm donors’ semen parameters. We might recommend a potential sperm donor preservation to be performed after 3 p.m., preferentially within 4 p.m.–5 p.m. interval.