What is Semen Analysis Test?

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why do I need a Semen Analysis Test?

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.

What is the Semen Analysis Test Procedure?

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.

What is a normal semen analysis test report?

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.

What is HPF in sperm?

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.

What is a good sperm sample?

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.

What are the indicators of an abnormal semen analysis report?

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.

What should you not do before a sperm sample?

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.

Does masturbation reduce sperm count?

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.