Principles and Practice of Reproductive Science and Diagnostic Semen Analysis

Module details

Title

Principles and Practice of Reproductive Science and Diagnostic Semen Analysis

Type

Rotation

Module code

SLS302

Credits

10

Requirement

Compulsory

Aim of this module

This module will provide the trainee with knowledge and understanding of the normal physiology of the male and female reproductive tracts. They will apply this knowledge as they learn to perform a range of techniques and interpret results from diagnostic semen analysis. They will also gain knowledge of current legislation and regulations.

Competencies

#	Learning outcome	Competency	Action
# 1	Learning outcome 1,2,5	Competency Receive, process and store samples for analysis.	Action View
# 2	Learning outcome 3	Competency Set up and use relevant microscopes. To include optical principles, maintenance and clinical applications.	Action View
# 3	Learning outcome 1,2,3	Competency Measure semen volume, extent of liquefaction and appearance.	Action View
# 4	Learning outcome 1,2,3	Competency Perform repeated sperm counts for concentration and motility using the same semen sample and be able to explain the variation observed.	Action View
# 5	Learning outcome 1,2,3	Competency Perform diagnostic sperm counts for concentration and motility on different patients and be able to prepare reports for discussion with your supervisor.	Action View
# 6	Learning outcome 3,4	Competency Identify normal and abnormal semen samples. To include sperm concentration, motility assessment, morphology, anti-sperm antibody testing, sperm viability testing.	Action View
# 7	Learning outcome 3,4	Competency Perform gradient and swim-up techniques for the preparation of semen samples for treatment.	Action View
# 8	Learning outcome 4	Competency Produce a record of reports seen and discussed with your supervisor.	Action View
# 9	Learning outcome 2,3	Competency Control infection risks in accordance with departmental protocols.	Action View
# 10	Learning outcome 2,3	Competency Minimise risks and hazards in compliance with health and safety policies.	Action View

Assessments

You must complete:

• 1 case-based discussion(s)
• 1 of the following DOPS/ OCEs:

Receive semen samples and log into the laboratory information system	DOPS
Perform sperm counts using the same semen sample and explain variation observed	DOPS
Perform diagnostic sperm counts on different patients	DOPS
An appropriate activity agreed with your Training Officer	OCE

Learning outcomes

1. Apply and interpret quality assurance methodologies in reproductive science.
2. Apply health and safety methodologies and practices appropriate to the reproductive science laboratory.
3. Perform to accepted standard relevant techniques for semen analysis and preparation.
4. Prepare, interpret and report on diagnostic semen analysis (under supervision).
5. Work in partnership with the reproductive science laboratory and other clinical specialisms in the investigation of infertility.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe male and female reproductive anatomy.
2. Describe male and female reproductive physiology.
3. Explain and evaluate current legislation and regulation as it relates to reproductive science.
4. Describe relevant techniques for semen analysis and preparation.
5. Describe and evaluate the application of quality assurance methodologies to reproductive science.
6. Discuss the purpose and process of preparation and interpretation of clinical diagnostic reports.
7. Describe the partnership of reproductive science with other clinical specialisms and contribution to patient care.

Indicative content

• Overview of sexual differentiation, including differentiation of the fetal testes and ovary, and the endocrinology and embryology of sexual differentiation
• The anatomy and physiology of the male reproductive tract
• The anatomy and physiology of the female reproductive tract
• Hormonal control of female reproduction, including the menstrual cycle, follicle growth, autocrine and paracrine factors regulating follicle growth, follicular fluid, ovulation, corpus luteum
• Hormonal control of male reproduction
• Basic understanding of the regulatory mechanisms associated with human assisted reproductive therapy (ART)
• The roles of ART centre staff: clinicians, scientists, clinical embryologists, nurses, counsellors
• Principles of and standards for diagnostic semen analysis
• Characteristics of normal and abnormal semen samples
• Semen preparation, including different methodologies, diagnostic tests and functional tests

Activities

• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings at which a range of relevant clinical cases and/or procedures are discussed. Review and discuss the patient pathway through the treatment process and the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach.
• Visit a clinical biochemistry laboratory. Review and discuss the methods used for the measurement and reporting of reproductive
• Attend infertility clinics and assisted conception Review and report on their role and importance in the patient pathway.
• Observe work activities with specific reference to embryology procedures from egg collection to embryo transfer (including in vitro fertilisation [IVF], intracytoplasmic sperm injection [ICSI], embryo culture, embryo freezing and thawing) and theatre procedures (including egg collection and embryo transfer), and review these procedures in relation to the patient journey through investigation and treatment.
• Observe follicular and clinical pregnancy scanning to follow the patient pathway and understand how monitoring is carried out in a controlled ovarian stimulation regimen.
• Observe, participate and review the application and interpretation of quality assurance methodologies in Reproductive Science.
• Review and discuss the preparation, interpretation and reporting of diagnostic semen analysis.