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Semen Analysis: Purpose, Procedure & How to Read Results

Dr. Pujil Gulati, IVF Specialist with over 13 years of experience in Assisted Reproductive Techniques BabyBloom IVF Gurgaon

March 3, 2025

Introduction

Semen analysis is a diagnostic test that evaluates a man’s sperm health and fertility potential. It measures factors like sperm count, motility, morphology, and semen volume to assess reproductive health.

This test is crucial for couples experiencing infertility and helps determine the best fertility treatment options, such as IUI (Intrauterine Insemination) or IVF (In Vitro Fertilization).

In this article, we will cover the purpose, procedure, and how to interpret semen analysis results in detail.

What is Semen Analysis?

Semen analysis, also called a sperm test, is a laboratory test that examines the quality and quantity of sperm in semen.

🔹 Key Factors Analyzed in a Semen Test:

Sperm Count – Number of sperm present. Read More:- Best food to increase sperm count
Motility – Movement and speed of sperm.
Morphology – Shape and structure of sperm.
Volume – Amount of semen produced.
pH Levels – Acidity or alkalinity of semen.

This test is commonly used in male fertility evaluation and can also help diagnose infections or other reproductive health issues.

Purpose of Semen Analysis

🔹 1. Assess Male Fertility

Determines if a man has a healthy sperm count and motility for natural conception.

🔹 2. Diagnose Infertility Issues

Helps identify the cause of male infertility, such as low sperm count or poor sperm motility.

🔹 3. Evaluate Vasectomy Success

Checks if the vasectomy procedure successfully blocked sperm production.

🔹 4. Monitor Sperm Health After Treatment

Used to track improvements in sperm quality after medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery.

Semen Analysis Procedure: Step-by-Step

1. Sample Collection

Semen is collected through masturbation into a sterile container. In some cases, it may also be collected using a special condom during intercourse.

✅ Preparation Before Collection:

Avoid ejaculation for 2–5 days before the test for accurate results.
Do not drink alcohol, smoke, or use drugs before the test.
Stay hydrated to ensure normal semen volume.

🔹 Collection Methods:

At the Clinic: Collected in a private room at a fertility lab.
At Home: If allowed, the sample must be kept at body temperature and delivered within 1 hour

2. Laboratory Testing

The sample is examined under a microscope and analyzed using specialized techniques to assess sperm quality, quantity, and function.

Key tests performed:

Sperm count measurement
Motility analysis
Morphology assessment
Semen volume and pH testing
Presence of infections or white blood cells

How to Read Semen Analysis Results?

A semen analysis report includes multiple sperm parameters that indicate fertility potential. Below is a breakdown of key semen test results:

Parameter	Normal Range (WHO 2021 Guidelines)	What It Means
Semen Volume	1.5 – 5 mL	Low volume may indicate a problem with the seminal vesicles.
Sperm Count (Concentration)	≥15 million per mL	Low sperm count (<15M/mL) can lead to infertility.
Total Sperm Count	≥39 million per ejaculate	Fewer than 39M sperm per ejaculate may lower pregnancy chances.
Sperm Motility	≥42% total motility	Less than 42% motility means sperm struggle to reach the egg.
Progressive Motility	≥30%	Higher motility increases pregnancy chances.
Sperm Morphology	≥4% normal forms	Low morphology means many sperm have abnormal shapes.
Semen pH	7.2 – 8.0	Low pH may indicate infection or blocked ducts.
White Blood Cells (WBCs)	<1 million/mL	High WBCs suggest an infection that may affect sperm health.

Understanding Abnormal Semen Analysis Results

1. 🔴 Low Sperm Count (Oligospermia)

Sperm concentration below 15 million/mL
Can be caused by hormonal imbalances, varicocele, or lifestyle factors

2. 🔴 Poor Sperm Motility (Asthenospermia)

Less than 42% sperm movement
Can be due to infection, smoking, or low testosterone

3. 🔴 Abnormal Sperm Shape (Teratospermia)

Less than 4% normal-shaped sperm
Can be linked to genetic disorders or oxidative stress

4. 🔴 Low Semen Volume (Hypospermia)

Less than 1.5 mL of semen
May indicate blockages or prostate gland issues

5. 🔴 High White Blood Cell Count

Suggests infection or inflammation
Can damage sperm and lower fertility

If semen analysis results are abnormal, further tests like hormone testing, scrotal ultrasound, or genetic analysis may be recommended.

How to Improve Semen Quality for Better Results?

✅ 1. Eat a Fertility-Boosting Diet

Include walnuts, eggs, dark chocolate, spinach, and salmon for sperm health.

✅ 2. Take Fertility Supplements

Zinc, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, CoQ10, and Folic Acid improve sperm production.

✅ 3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy BMI.

✅ 4. Avoid Heat & Tight Clothing

Excess heat from saunas, hot baths, and tight underwear can reduce sperm count.

✅ 5. Reduce Stress & Sleep Well

High stress and poor sleep negatively affect testosterone and sperm production.

✅ 6. Quit Smoking, Alcohol & Drugs

These substances can cause DNA damage in sperm

Conclusion:-

Semen analysis is a vital test for evaluating male fertility and diagnosing reproductive issues. By understanding the parameters of sperm health, men can take proactive steps to improve fertility and increase conception chances. OR If you need any information related to IVF, contact our Babybloom IVF Centre or call us at 9266046700 to clear your doubt