Yashoda Hospitals > Diagnostics > Semen Analysis Test

What is Semen Analysis Test?

A Semen Analysis Test is a diagnostic procedure used to determine male fertility. While it doesn’t provide a complete fertility assessment, it’s an initial step in evaluating male reproductive health.

Additionally, if a vasectomy has been performed (a surgical method for permanent male contraception), this test can determine its success by counting the remaining sperm in semen. It’s a non-invasive procedure with no known side effects.

What is the Semen Analysis Test used for?

A semen analysis test is a lab test that is used to evaluate the sperm count, morphology, viability, and motility of sperm. The test is also used as a fertility test in men, and/or to check the success rate of a vasectomy. Semen analysis tests are often performed when a couple has trouble getting pregnant.

How to interpret a semen analysis test report?

A semen analysis test assesses various parameters to evaluate male fertility. To understand the test report, you should consider the following key parameters:

Sperm Concentration: This measures the number of sperm per milliliter (mL) of semen. A normal range typically falls between 15-200 million sperm per mL.
Sperm Motility: It indicates the percentage of sperm that are moving. Healthy sperm should exhibit progressive motility, which means they move forward. Typically, at least 40% should have this type of motility.
Sperm Morphology: This parameter assesses the shape and structure of sperm. Normally, about 4% or more of sperm should have a typical, healthy appearance.
Sperm Volume: This measures the total volume of semen produced, usually around 1.5 to 5 milliliters per ejaculation.
Chemical Makeup: This assesses the pH level and the presence of substances like white blood cells, which can indicate infection.
Liquefaction Time: After ejaculation, semen usually becomes more liquid over time. Normal liquefaction occurs within 20-30 minutes.
Fructose Level: This evaluates the presence of fructose in semen, which is an energy source for sperm. A low fructose level might indicate a problem with seminal vesicles.

Understanding these parameters helps determine male fertility. If any values fall outside the normal range, it’s advisable to consult a urologist or fertility specialist for a more detailed evaluation and appropriate guidance regarding potential treatments or interventions.

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References

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/21520-semen-analysis
https://www.webmd.com/infertility-and-reproduction/guide/what-is-semen-analysis
https://www.healthline.com/health/mens-health/normal-sperm-count
https://www.mlo-online.com/home/article/13003660/answering-your-questions
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/male-infertility/expert-answers/male-masturbation/faq-20058426#:~:text=Frequent%20male%20masturbation%20isn%27t,concentrations%20even%20with%20daily%20ejaculation.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you and your partner are experiencing difficulties conceiving, your doctor may recommend a Semen Analysis Test. While infertility can be a concern for either partner, it's commonly observed that male infertility plays a significant role. Therefore, a Semen Analysis Test is a diagnostic tool used to assess male fertility.

During a Semen Analysis Test, the lab technician looks at your semen sample under a microscope to identify the number of sperm cells in it. The lab technician also looks at the level of movement of each sperm cell, its shape, the level of acidity, and the time it takes for your semen sample to liquify.

When interpreting a semen analysis test report, it's important to focus on the concentration of sperm cells in each milliliter of semen. The typical normal range for sperm concentration falls between 15 million and 200 million sperm cells per milliliter of semen. A count below 15 million is generally considered below normal or unhealthy, while a count above 200 million is considered excessive.

HPFs are high-power fluids in your semen. At least 30 different types of HPF are analysed in each sample during a semen analysis test. When measuring HPF in your semen, the results of the level of movement (motility) of sperm cells as well as the count of sperm cells in different HPF are reported.

A good sperm sample (typically known as a semen sample) should be at least 1.5 millilitres (ml) or half a teaspoon. A good sample is also one that has a sperm count between 15 million to 200 million per ml of semen, a pH value between 7.2 and 7.8, and has more than 50% of active sperm cells.

Indicators of an abnormal semen analysis report include low sperm count, poor sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, low semen volume, pH level deviations, white blood cell presence, absent seminal fructose, high round cell count, sperm agglutination, high DNA fragmentation, and azoospermia. Abnormal results may indicate fertility issues or underlying health concerns, requiring further evaluation by a healthcare provider.

Before taking the semen analysis test, it is recommended that you abstain from intercourse and masturbation for 2 to 5 days. However, it's important not to extend this period of sexual inactivity for more than 2 weeks. Additionally, it's advisable to avoid consuming alcohol, anabolic steroids, marijuana, and opiates before providing a semen sample. This will help ensure accurate test results.

Masturbation does not typically reduce sperm count, especially if you have healthy levels of sperm count and sperm motility. However, if your sperm count and motility are already low, it may take 2 to 3 days of abstinence from ejaculation to allow your sperm count to replenish.