Short answer
A semen analysis checks sperm count, movement (motility) and shape (morphology). Avoid ejaculation for 2 to 7 days before the test, and collect the whole sample by masturbation into the sterile container the lab gives you. WHO’s lower reference limits include a concentration of 16 million per mL, total motility of 42% and 4% normal forms. An abnormal result is usually repeated before drawing conclusions.
- Published
- Published by
- Dhruva Hospitals, Kadapa
How to prepare
- Avoid ejaculation for 2 to 7 days before the test.
- Tell the doctor about your medicines and any fever or illness in the last 3 months, as these can affect the result.
- Collect the sample by masturbation. Do not use a condom or lubricant, as these can damage sperm.
- Collect the complete sample. Tell the staff if any part was spilled or lost.
- If the lab allows collection at home, deliver it within the time they give you, kept close to body temperature.
WHO reference limits
The WHO laboratory manual (6th edition) gives these lower reference limits:
| Test | WHO lower reference limit |
|---|---|
| Semen volume | 1.4 mL |
| Sperm concentration | 16 million per mL |
| Total sperm number | 39 million per ejaculate |
| Total motility (moving sperm) | 42% |
| Progressive motility (sperm swimming forward) | 30% |
| Vitality (live sperm) | 54% |
| Normal forms (morphology) | 4% |
These limits come from men whose partners became pregnant within a year. A result below a limit does not mean a man cannot father a child, and a result above it does not guarantee fertility. Your doctor reads the whole report together with the female partner’s tests.
Words you may see on the report
- Oligozoospermia: a low sperm count
- Asthenozoospermia: low sperm movement
- Teratozoospermia: a low percentage of normally shaped sperm
- Azoospermia: no sperm in the sample
If the result is abnormal
The test is usually repeated, because results vary from sample to sample. Sperm take about 2 to 3 months to develop, so lifestyle changes or treatment take a few months to show.
Further tests may include hormone blood tests and a scrotal ultrasound. Depending on the cause, options include treating the cause, IUI, IVF with ICSI, or surgical sperm retrieval (TESA, PESA or TESE) when there are no sperm in the semen.
Semen analysis at Dhruva Hospitals
Our laboratory offers computer-aided semen analysis, and our fertility team explains the report and the next steps. Call +91 99599 59694 or WhatsApp us to book a fertility consultation. OPD hours are 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
Common questions
Why must I avoid ejaculation for 2 to 7 days?
A shorter or longer gap changes the volume, count and movement of the sperm, which makes the result harder to interpret. Note the number of days on the form.
Can a low sperm count improve?
Sometimes. Stopping smoking and alcohol, reaching a healthy weight, and treating infections or other causes can help. Because sperm take about 3 months to develop, repeat the test after that time.
Read next
Sources
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. In an emergency, call +91 90368 52311.