(842) Temporal Evaluation of Semen Parameters and Fertility Outcomes in Men Undergoing Preconception Screening

Introduction Semen analysis remains as the essential tool for assessing male fertility potential. Understanding the factors influencing semen quality is crucial for optimizing reproductive health before conception. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the semen parameters and factors affecting fertility potential in men undergoing fertility screening who desire paternity. Methods In this study, semen analyses of men who underwent preconception screening at our hospital between 2018 and 2024 were reviewed. This study was approved by our Institutional Review Board (Project no: KA24/375). Men with the history of infertility treatment and scrotal surgery were excluded. Semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, and motility were recorded. Men were later contacted regarding smoking status, exercise habits, and pregnancy outcomes. Results A total of 324 men agreed to participate in the study. The mean age of the participants by year is presented in Table 1. Among the couples, 115(35%) achieved pregnancy spontaneously, while 133(41%) conceived using assisted reproductive techniques (ART). Among men whose partners conceived naturally, 17(14.8%) were oligospermic and 17(14.8%) had asthenozoospermia. When analyzed by year, no significant differences were observed for oligospermia and asthenospermia rate within the spontaneous conception group (p=0.578 and 0.251 respectively). Yearly data on semen volume, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility, and progressive motility are listed in Table 1. There were no statistically significant differences over the years in semen volume (p=0.196), sperm concentration (p=0.667), total sperm count (p=0.127), motility (p=0.349), or progressive motility (p=0.644). The analyses according to years showed no significant difference in sperm concentration among men who achieved natural conception (p= 0.627). Comparison of couples who conceived spontaneously and those who conceived via ART, statistically significant differences were observed in sperm concentration, total sperm count, and progressive motility (p=0.001, p=0.023, p=0.048, respectively). Use of antioxidant supplements was reported in 9.6% (n=11) of men whose partners conceived naturally and in 22.6% (n=30) of those who conceived via ART, showing a significant difference (p=0.006). Smoking habits were similar between the two groups (70.4% vs. 65.4%, p=0.399). Regular exercise was reported by 47%(n=54) of men in the spontaneous conception group and 34.6%(n=46) in the ART group, showing a significant difference (p=0.048). Among the men in this group, 17/ 115(14.8%) were oligospermic, and 17 of 115(14.8%) were asthenospermic. Conclusions Semen parameters showed no significant change over the years. Sperm quality indicators were significantly associated with conception outcomes. Lifestyle factors such as exercise and antioxidant use appeared to influence fertility potential, highlighting the importance of preconception counseling in men. Disclosure No