A semen analysis (SA) is a laboratory test that provides an in-depth evaluation of the fluid released during ejaculation and the sperm it contains. This assessment is a standard, non-invasive step in understanding male reproductive health. The test is primarily used for two distinct purposes: to evaluate male fertility when a couple is having difficulty conceiving, or to confirm the success of a vasectomy procedure.
Finding a Testing Location
The process of obtaining a semen analysis typically begins with a referral from a primary care physician or a specialist like a urologist. Testing is generally performed at specialized facilities. Common locations include specialized fertility clinics, which often provide the most comprehensive analysis due to their focus on reproductive health.
Urology offices frequently perform an SA on-site. Large commercial diagnostic laboratories, such as LabCorp or Quest Diagnostics, also offer the test at their clinical lab locations. The cost can vary significantly between facility types; specialized clinics may be more expensive but often provide a more detailed analysis.
Essential Preparation Steps
To ensure accurate results, a period of sexual abstinence is mandated before the appointment. This involves refraining from all forms of ejaculation, including intercourse and masturbation, for a minimum of two days and a maximum of five to seven days. Abstinence shorter than two days can result in a lower sperm count, while longer than seven days may decrease motility.
Inform the healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter medications being taken, as some, particularly hormone therapies, can influence the results. Avoid excessive heat exposure, such as hot tubs or saunas, in the days leading up to the test because high temperatures can temporarily impair sperm production. Any recent fever or illness should also be reported, as a high body temperature can affect sperm parameters for up to three months.
The Analysis Procedure
The procedure involves producing a semen sample, typically through masturbation in a private collection room at the testing facility. The clinic provides a sterile, non-toxic container to collect the entire ejaculate. Wash the hands and genital area beforehand to prevent contamination of the sample.
While on-site collection is preferred to minimize environmental variables, home collection may be permitted in some cases. If collected at home, the sample must be delivered to the laboratory within one hour and kept close to body temperature, such as by carrying it in an inside pocket. Once delivered, the sample undergoes liquefaction, where the initially thick fluid turns into a liquid state. This process normally takes 15 to 30 minutes, after which technicians assess the sample’s volume, pH, and viscosity before beginning the microscopic examination.
Interpreting the Key Results
The laboratory analysis focuses on three parameters, comparing them against established reference values, often based on World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines.
Sperm Concentration/Count
Sperm concentration measures the number of sperm present in each milliliter of semen. The normal range is 15 million or more sperm per milliliter. The total sperm count, which is the concentration multiplied by the sample volume, should be 39 million sperm or greater per ejaculate. Low counts can suggest a problem with sperm production or an obstruction in the reproductive tract.
Motility
Motility refers to the ability of the sperm to move. The report differentiates between total motility (any movement) and progressive motility (movement in a straight line or large circle). According to WHO standards, a sample is considered normal if 40% or more of the sperm are motile, with at least 32% demonstrating progressive movement.
Morphology
Morphology is the evaluation of the size and shape of the sperm, assessed against strict criteria. Technicians examine the head, mid-piece, and tail for structural defects, which can affect the sperm’s ability to move or penetrate an egg. A sample is considered to have normal morphology if 4% or more of the sperm have a normal shape. An abnormal result in any of these areas often leads to a recommendation for follow-up testing or a consultation with a reproductive specialist.