Semen Analysis Test
What is Semen Analysis
Semen analysis is also called sperm count (or) male fertility test. It measures the quality and quantity of semen and sperm in terms of volume, number, shape, and movement (motility). Semen is a thick fluid released from men's genitals after ejaculation. Semen contains sperm along with proteins, sugar, and other substances. Healthcare providers recommend this test to determine male fertility or to determine whether a vasectomy (a small surgical procedure to block the sperm from getting to the semen when a man ejaculates) was successful.
Semen analysis is also known as Semen testing, Seminal Fluid Test, Sperm Test, Semen Test, Male Factor Infertility Test, and Male Fertility Test.
The seminal fluid provides a medium for the transportation of sperms, and activates and nourishes the sperm. It aids in the transportation of spermatozoa to the female egg, and produces enzymes necessary for reproduction.
Semen analysis is used to diagnose various abnormalities of seminal fluid and sperm, that may cause male infertility and may affect the sexual functioning of the body. Thus, getting your semen analysis is recommended to screen and monitor whether a problem within semen or sperm is contributing to infertility or not.
What is a semen analysis used for?
The Semen analysis is used to determine:
Sperm functioning
Cause of infertility
Success of vasectomy
Which tests are included in a semen analysis?
Semen analysis measures the following parameters that characterise your sperm and semen.
The volume of your sample
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It is the amount of semen present in the sample. A low volume of semen may indicate infertility.
Sperm Count
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It is the total number of sperm in the sample. A low sperm count will be challenging to get your partner pregnant.
Sperm Concentration
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It measures the sperm density in your semen. A low concentration indicates infertility.
Sperm movement (motility)
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It tells about the movement of sperm. For sperm to fertilise an egg, they must be able to move forward.
Sperm shape (morphology)
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It describes the quantity of sperm that have a normal shape to fertilize an egg.
pH of seminal fluid
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If the pH of the solution is acidic, it can affect the vitality and motility of the sperm.
Leukocyte count (white blood cells)
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The presence of white blood cells in the given sample may be a sign of infection, which in turn affects fertility.
Who should get tested?
Semen analysis is recommended to be performed frequently in individuals at increased risk of fertility issues. The following factors can increase the risk of infertility and may affect reproductive health in the following cases:
Partner is facing difficulty in conceiving
Low sperm count
Low sex drive
Erectile dysfunction (difficulty in getting a penis erection)
Lack of facial or body hair
Reduced or increased appetite
Test Preparation
It is important to avoid sex for 24 to 72 hours, before the semen analysis. Avoid consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and drugs such as cocaine for 2 to 5 days and stop taking hormonal supplements before the test. Make sure to follow all the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. A sample of semen will be collected in a sterile container and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Interpretation of results
Normal range of semen and sperm parameters
|
Semen volume |
1.5 millilitres (mL) or more |
|
Total sperm count |
39 million sperm per sample or more |
|
Sperm concentration |
15 million sperm per mL or more |
|
Sperm motility(total) |
 32% or more |
|
Sperm morphology |
4% or more of sperm has a normal shape |
|
Semen pH |
7.2 to 7.8 |
|
Leukocytes |
 Less than 1 million |
Deviation from the normal range indicates the following:
- If the results of the semen analysis are normal, then the reason behind the unsuccessful pregnancy is not due to semen and sperm.
- If the results of semen analysis are not normal, then the reason behind the unsuccessful pregnancy is due to semen and sperm functioning.
- If sperm is found in your sample after vasectomy, then you need to undergo re-testing.
- If sperm is not found in your sample after vasectomy, then you can stop using birth control pills.
FAQs
What is the significance of semen analysis?
Semen analysis is used to diagnose male infertility. Depending on various factors such as men’s age and personal history, the results may vary. It can be used to identify any dysfunctions or irregularities in the semen and sperm. It is also used to determine the underlying reason for infertility in men who are having difficulty making their partner pregnant.
How is semen analysis performed?
Semen analysis involves taking a sample of semen in a sterile container and then providing it to a laboratory assistant for microscopic analysis. It may be advised to perform two or more semen analyses on samples taken one or more weeks apart.
How long should I wait for my semen analysis result?
In most cases, semen analysis results are available in 2 to 3 working days. You may receive your test results via email or regular mail or you can receive a call from your healthcare provider’s office to go over the results of the semen analysis or to schedule a follow-up appointment.
What are the risks associated with semen analysis?
There are no known risks associated with a semen analysis. You need to collect your semen in a sterile container.
What factors might affect my semen analysis?
The use of lubricants or condoms that contain lubrication can affect your test results. Other factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, caffeine, recreational substances (drugs/substance abuse), and some over-the-counter medications, such as cimetidine or herbal remedies can show an impact on your test results. So, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider before the analysis.
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