Semen / Sperm Analysis Test

Semen Analysis Test Overview

The semen analysis is the single most important test for investigation in cases of male infertility. It is also called sperm count test and assesses male sperm condition. Semen is the liquid which contains sperm and certain other substances and is released during ejaculation. 

Why is the Semen Analysis Test Prescribed? 

The doctor recommends a semen culture test or sperm analysis test to find out the cause in case a couple is having difficulty in getting pregnant due to some reasons /factors suspected in male partner.

Semen culture test is also done in males after VASECTOMY (procedure done in males for permanent sterilisation) to ensure that sperms are not present in semen. 

What are the components of Semen Analysis? 

There are certain components of the sperm analysis test you need to be aware about:

1. Volume-normal volume is 15 million tp 250 million in one ml​
2.  Ph-alkaline with range 7.3-8.0.
3. Liquefaction-semen coagulates just after ejaculation and liquifies in 30 minutes.
4. Total number-it is the total number of sperms present in one ejaculate.
5. Concentration-it is total number of sperms present in 1 ml of semen.
6. Motility-it is the movement of sperm after ejaculation which is essential for fertility.
7. Morphology-it depicts the sperm shape in analysis.
8. Vitality-it is the percentage of live sperm in semen sample.

Abnormal test results could indicate multiple problems like infertility, infection, hormone imbalance disease like diabetes or exposure to radiation.

Procedure and Prerequisite

As a part of preparation, you will need to avoid any sexual activities 2 to 5 days before taking a sample. This is to make sure that the person's sperm count is at its highest so that the test findings are more accurate. But it's ideal to talk to a doctor who will look at things like your health, risk factors, and so on and tell you what you need to do to get ready.

Semen sample for analysis should be collected by masturbation(preferably). The patient is asked to collect complete sample in wide mouthed, sterile, dry plastic container. Sample is collected after 2-3 days of complete abstinence (no ejaculation). Avoid alcohol, caffeine and other medications before the test

Reference Range

1.VOLUME - 1.5ml or more

2.TOTAL NUMBER-39 million per ejaculate or more

3.CONCENTRATION-15 million sperm per ml or more

4.TOTAL MOTILITY-40%or more 

5.PROGRESSIVE MOTILITY-32%or more

6.VITALITY (LIVE SPERMS)-58% or more

7.SPERM MORPHOLOGY-30% or more with normal forms

8.Ph -7.2 to 8.0

9.LEUCOCYTE-less than 1 million per ml