What is the REM Test?
The REM test or Motile Sperm Retrieval is a technique that allows processing a semen sample and selecting the spermatozoa with the best motility.
It is a diagnostic test that helps in the study of the male factor for a couple who want to perform an assisted reproduction treatment.
What does the EMR test consist of?
The two fundamental techniques to carry out the process are:
- Swim-up
- Density gradients
Both techniques are equally effective, but one or the other is always chosen depending on the initial parameters and characteristics of each sample, in order to obtain the best possible performance.
The REM test is used to exclude non-progressively motile spermatozoa, immotile spermatozoa and other cell types that may be present in the ejaculate (apithelial cells, leukocytes, etc.). Therefore, only the spermatozoa with the best motility are selected.
To perform this diagnostic test it is essential to perform a seminogram and complement the study with the REM (Recovery of Motile Spermatozoa).
To perform this diagnostic test it is essential to perform a semen analysis and complement the study with REM.
Why is it performed?
This diagnostic test is performed prior to an assisted reproduction treatment, since it is necessary to correctly diagnose both members of the couple. The REM test is responsible for the study of the male factor and will help in the choice of the most appropriate assisted reproduction treatment. Preparation for the EMR Test Specifically, the preparation that the patient should do is before taking the semen sample, since the EMR Test will work on that sample.
The basic recommendations are:
- Avoid sexual intercourse for a period of 3 days and a maximum of 7 days before the collection of the sample.
- In case of vasectomy, it is necessary that three months have passed since the intervention and to have ejaculated a minimum of 30 times since the intervention.
- One hour before the appointment to deliver the sample it is necessary to collect the sample (it is important to analyze the test in less than 2 hours after ejaculation).
- Before obtaining the test the patient has to urinate. Wash hands and penis thoroughly with soap and water. Rinse well and dry with a clean towel.
- Obtain the semen sample by masturbation without a condom and collect the entire amount directly into the container.
What does the test feel like?
Semen samples are taken from the patient and worked on. As a rule, the patient will not feel anything during the examination, since only a semen sample will be taken.
Meaning of results
Taking into account the initial parameters of the sample, depending on the value of the concentration and the percentage of progressive motility obtained from the semen sample, it can be decided which treatment is most appropriate.
- If the REM shows a high concentration and motility we will know that in terms of male factor the sample can be used in an Artificial Insemination treatment.
- On the other hand, if the EMR test has a low concentration and progressive motility, it indicates the need for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) treatment, in order to increase the chances of success. In addition to the concentration and motility data obtained after the test, the sample is reanalyzed after 24 hours: if the sperm have not survived and do not have progressive motility, the indicated treatment is IVF.