How do I prepare for a semen analysis?

Abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days before the test. Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and excessive heat (hot tubs, saunas) for several days prior. If collecting at home, keep the sample at body temperature and deliver within 1 hour. Avoid lubricants unless provided by the clinic.

What is a normal sperm count?

According to WHO guidelines, normal sperm concentration is 16 million or more per milliliter, with a total count of 39 million or more per ejaculate. However, men with lower counts can still achieve pregnancy, especially with fertility treatments like IUI or IVF.

What does sperm motility mean?

Motility refers to how well sperm swim. Progressive motility (swimming forward) should be at least 32% of sperm. Total motility (any movement) should be at least 40%. Poor motility (asthenozoospermia) means sperm may have difficulty reaching and fertilizing the egg.

What is sperm morphology?

Morphology measures the percentage of sperm with normal shape. Using strict Kruger criteria, 4% or more normal forms is considered acceptable. Even with low morphology, pregnancy is possible with IVF/ICSI where sperm are selected individually.

Can male fertility be improved?

Yes, many factors affecting sperm quality can be improved. Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, reducing alcohol, maintaining healthy weight, and avoiding heat exposure can help. Supplements like CoQ10, zinc, and folate may support sperm health. Results take 2-3 months to appear.

When should men get fertility tested?

Men should get tested after 12 months of trying to conceive (6 months if partner is over 35). Testing should also be done before starting fertility treatment to rule out male factor issues, which contribute to 40-50% of infertility cases.

Male Fertility Testing Guide

Male factor infertility contributes to 40-50% of all infertility cases. Understanding what tests are available and what the results mean can help you take an active role in your fertility journey. Here's everything you need to know about male fertility testing.

Semen Analysis: The Primary Test

A semen analysis is the cornerstone of male fertility testing. It evaluates several key parameters of sperm health:

Parameter	Normal Range (WHO)	What It Measures
Volume	1.5 mL or more	Total amount of semen in the sample
Concentration	16 million/mL or more	Number of sperm per milliliter
Total Count	39 million or more	Total number of sperm in the ejaculate
Progressive Motility	32% or more	Percentage swimming forward
Total Motility	40% or more	Percentage showing any movement
Morphology (Kruger)	4% or more	Percentage with normal shape
pH	7.2 - 8.0	Acidity level of semen
Vitality	58% or more alive	Percentage of living sperm

How to Prepare for Your Test

Before the Test

• Abstain from ejaculation for 2-5 days
• Avoid alcohol for 2-3 days
• Skip hot tubs and saunas for a week
• Avoid fever-inducing illnesses
• Tell your doctor about any medications

Day of Collection

• Wash hands thoroughly before
• Use only clinic-provided containers
• Don't use lubricants or saliva
• Collect the entire sample
• Deliver within 1 hour if collected at home

Additional Testing

If semen analysis shows abnormalities, or if you're proceeding with IVF, additional tests may be recommended:

Hormone Testing

Evaluates hormonal causes of low sperm production

FSHLHTestosteroneProlactinEstradiol

DNA Fragmentation

Measures damage to sperm DNA that can affect embryo development

SCSATUNELComet assay

Anti-Sperm Antibodies

Detects immune system attacking sperm

MAR testImmunobead test

Physical Examination

Identifies physical abnormalities affecting fertility

Testicular examVaricocele checkUltrasound

Genetic Testing

Screens for genetic causes of azoospermia or severe issues

KaryotypeY-chromosome microdeletionCFTR gene

Understanding Your Results

Normal Results

All parameters meet WHO criteria. Male factor infertility is unlikely, though one normal test doesn't guarantee fertility. Other factors can still affect conception.

Borderline Results

Some parameters slightly below normal. Usually repeated in 2-4 weeks since sperm quality varies. Lifestyle improvements may help.

Abnormal Results

Significantly low counts or other issues. Further testing and possible treatment referral to a urologist. IVF with ICSI may be recommended.

Medical Terms Explained

Oligozoospermia

Low sperm count

Asthenozoospermia

Poor sperm motility

Teratozoospermia

Abnormal sperm shape

Azoospermia

No sperm in ejaculate

OAT Syndrome

Low count, motility, and morphology

Varicocele

Enlarged veins in scrotum affecting sperm

Track Your Fertility Testing Results

Use IVFPath to store and track your semen analysis results over time. Monitor improvements as you make lifestyle changes.

Start Tracking Free

What tests are done for male fertility?