A semen analysis test is commonly known as a sperm count test. The main objective of this test is to measure the sperm quantity and quality in a male. According to fertility specialists around the world, semen analysis is the gold standard for determining male reproductive health. When a couple is unable to conceive, this test is generally the first diagnostic step recommended for the male partner.
For minor semen problems, medication for two to three months and lifestyle changes can improve the semen parameters. However, for severe semen problems, immediate treatment becomes necessary. For more details on how to cure semen problems, you can watch this video by our IVF specialist:
A semen analysis test is important because it is a highly effective and non-invasive way to evaluate male reproductive health and diagnose underlying male fertility issues. Additionally, this test is not confined to fertility issues alone, as it also serves as one of the critical diagnostic tools for monitoring specific procedural outcomes and overall male physical health.
Here are the factors that make this test important:
According to a landmark study by Leslie et al. (2026), around 50% of infertility cases are caused by male factor infertility. Performing a quick, non-invasive semen analysis test can potentially help avoid invasive diagnostic procedures on the female partner.
If the test results show poor sperm motility, then fertility specialists suggest advanced treatments like IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) or ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). If the results show normal parameters, couples can go for timed intercourse or IUI (Intrauterine Insemination).
Sperm quality is often a critical indicator of physical health. Abnormal sperm parameters can indicate varicoceles, infections, or hormonal imbalances.
It is highly recommended for men who underwent a vasectomy to undergo a semen analysis test after 8 to 16 weeks of the surgery. The test results can confirm zero live sperm in the semen.
The process for a semen analysis test involves three distinct stages of patient preparation, sample collection, and detailed laboratory evaluation. All three stages hold tremendous significance because the accuracy of the results relies heavily on them. Here are the processes involved in a semen analysis test:
The patient must strictly follow an abstinence window of 2 to 7 days before the test. During this window, sexual activity, ejaculation, or masturbation should be avoided strictly.
You must inform your doctor about any recent high fevers, illness, or medications. This is because high body temperatures and specific medications can temporarily suppress or completely halt sperm production.
During the sample collection process, you must not use any lubricants, condoms, lotions, or saliva. This is because these substances can alter the sperm metrics of the semen sample. Additionally, the sample is collected in a sterile, wide-mouth plastic cup via masturbation.
The ejaculated semen is placed in a warm incubator and must naturally turn into a liquid state within 20 to 60 minutes. The andrologist performs a visual examination to evaluate the overall sample traits, including total semen volume (measured in millilitres), color, and pH level (acidity). Lastly, the semen sample is placed under a high-powered microscope to calculate sperm concentration, motility, and morphology.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has set global standard values to determine whether a semen sample is healthy. These parameters assess the total fluid volume, the total number of sperm cells, how efficiently those cells swim forward, and whether their physical structure is correctly formed. Here is a table demonstrating the standard normal lower limits for a healthy semen analysis based on WHO guidelines:
| Parameter | Standard Normal Lower Limit (WHO guidelines) |
|---|---|
| Semen Volume | ≥ 1.4 mL |
| Total Sperm Count | ≥ 39 million |
| Sperm Concentration | ≥ 15 million / mL |
| Total Motility (Moving Capacity) | ≥ 42% |
| Progressive Motility (Ability to Move in a Straight Line or Circle) | ≥ 32% |
| Sperm Morphology (Shape) | ≥ 4% |
| Liquefaction Time | Within 20 - 60 minutes |
| pH Level (Acidity) | ≥ 7.2 |
| Vitality (Live Sperm) | ≥ 54% |
| White Blood Cells (Presence of Immune Cells) | < 1 million / mL |
Newlife Fertility Centre is a trusted IVF centre in Siliguri with an excellent track record of delivering successful outcomes for couples facing reproductive challenges. We use advanced equipment and strict sample processing timelines, which ensure accurate semen analysis test results. Here are the top reasons to choose us:
If a semen analysis test result shows abnormalities, you do not have to visit another clinic for treatment. Under the leadership of renowned fertility specialists, we provide advanced corrective pathways on-site, including Sperm Washing, Intrauterine Insemination (IUI), and Surgical Sperm Retrieval (TESA/TESE).
This certification guarantees that the testing laboratory adheres to the highest level of hygiene, standard operating procedures, and clinical accuracy.
