Semen Analysis for Male Infertility

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Overview

A semen analysis evaluates certain characteristics of a male's semen and the sperm contained in the semen. It may be performed to determine if:

  • a man has a reproductive problem that is causing infertility
  • a vasectomy has been successful
  • the reversal of a vasectomy has been successful

Tests that may be done during a semen analysis include:

  • Volume
    Measures how much semen is present in one ejaculation
  • Sperm count
    A count of the number of sperm present per milliliter (mL) of semen in one ejaculation
  • Sperm morphology
    Measures the percentage of sperm that have a normal shape
  • Sperm motility
    Measures the percentage of sperm that can move forward normally. The number of sperm that show normal forward movement in a certain amount of semen can also be measured (motile density).
  • Liquefaction time
    Liquefaction time measures the time it takes for the semen to liquefy. (Semen is a thick gel at the time of ejaculation and normally becomes liquid within 20 minutes after ejaculation).
  • pH
    Measures the acidity (low pH) or alkalinity (high pH) of the semen.
  • White blood cell count
    Checks for white blood cells which are not normally present in semen
  • Fructose level
    Measures  the amount of a sugar called fructose in the semen. The fructose provides energy for the sperm.

Further information on semen analysis